John David Washington has responded to criticism over the age difference between himself and co-star Zendaya following their latest film release, Malcolm & Marie:
The 36-year-old actor said he isn't 'concerned' about the backlash because it was, in fact, him 'learning from her'.
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In a recent interview with Variety, when he was asked about 24-year-old Zendaya, he said: "People are going to see in this film how much of a woman she is."
He added: "She has far more experience than I do in the industry. I've only been in it for seven years. She's been in it longer, so I'm learning from her. I'm the rookie. I was leaning on her for a lot.
"Some of the stories she's shared about what she's had to go through with Twitter and everything. I appreciated her wisdom and discernment when it comes to this business. I admire that.
"What I'm really excited for people to see when the film is released - they're going to see how mature she is in this role. We're talking about versatility, and [director] Sam [Levinson] and Zendaya brought both."
Many people have taken to social media to point out the age difference between the pair.
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One wrote: "Anyways, my criticism of the film is that Zendaya could've gotten a male costar HER age. John almost 40 years old. It's tiring for me."
Another added: "I like what I see will definitely watch it but I am concerned about the age difference. I even googled it 12 year difference. She looks great in the role but."
Someone else defended the decision, saying: "I'd understand the ruckus about Zendaya and John David Washington's age difference if she was like 18 but she's pushing 25."
Malcolm & Marie focuses on the relationship between a director and his girlfriend, which is tested after they return home from his movie premiere and await critics' responses.
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The film will be released on Netflix on 5 February.
Featured Image Credit: NetflixTopics: Entertainment, TV and Film, Zendaya
