Simone Ashley Cut From Brad Pitt F1 Movie Despite Filmed Storyline

Simone Ashley, known for her roles in Bridgerton and Sex Education, was cast in the highly anticipated F1 movie starring Brad Pitt and Damson Idris, with her involvement announced in July 2024. Despite filming an entire storyline and participating in scenes alongside real Formula 1 races, her role was significantly reduced in the final cut, leaving her with a brief cameo and no dialogue. Director Joseph Kosinski explained that due to the film's length and narrative focus, multiple storylines, including Ashley's, were cut without any ill intent, praising her talent and expressing interest in working with her again. The decision sparked backlash and discussions about the sidelining of actors of color in Hollywood, with comparisons drawn to similar experiences faced by other actors like Manny Jacinto in Top Gun: Maverick. Ashley herself has highlighted the industry's representation challenges and has started her own production company to create stories featuring women who look like her as leads. While she has not publicly reacted to the cuts, fans expressed disappointment and frustration over her minimal presence in the final film.