Earlier this month, the director of F1: The Movie, Joseph Kosinski, sparked backlash after confirming that Simone Ashley’s role had been drastically cut from the final edit.

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For context, news broke last July that Simone had been cast in the Formula 1 movie, which stars Brad Pitt and Damson Idris.

Brad plays veteran driver Sonny Hayes, who comes out of retirement to race rookie Joshua Pearce, played by Damson. The film will be released in theaters this week.

Not only was Simone spotted filming scenes with Damson multiple times, but she also made an appearance at the Miami Grand Prix in May, sparking a heap of buzz around her upcoming role.

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And so, as you can imagine, fans were extremely disappointed when director Joseph revealed that Simone’s storyline “ultimately didn't make it into the final cut.”

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“It happens on every film, where you have to shoot more than you can use. There were two or three storylines that ultimately didn't make it into the final cut,” he told People. “But Simone, she's an incredible talent, incredible actress, incredible singer, and I would love to work with her again.”

After Joseph’s comments went viral, several internet users wound up discussing other times that actors of color have been sidelined in the industry. One popular tweet read, “There’s a pattern in Hollywood of casting actors of color, only to minimize, sideline or exclude their presence.”

Manny Jacinto’s lines cut from Top Gun. Simone Ashley reduced to a cameo in F1. Tracy Ifeachor and the other actresses of color left off The Pitt’s Variety cover. There’s a pattern in Hollywood of casting actors of color, only to minimize, sideline or exclude their presence.

— N ‎ (@chrkrose) June 13, 2025

Twitter: @chrkrose

However, in spite of everything, Simone recently showed her support for the film as she stepped out at the European premiere in London this week.

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The Bridgerton star wore a metallic-looking gold outfit at the Monday night event, and it’s safe to say that she looked absolutely stunning.

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And while it’s likely that Simone was contractually obligated to attend the premiere, numerous fans couldn’t help but marvel over her professionalism and grace as they heaped praise onto the actor.

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“She’s a professional! I won’t be watching the movie… but I hope she gets more opportunities she deserves it,” one user wrote.

“even after that disrespect… Simone is just superior,” someone tweeted. “She better than me. You cut my scenes from a movie and I am not showing up to the premier,” another user wrote.

“She’s so graceful. I would not have given them a single ounce of publicity after the stunt they pulled,” one more post read.

Simone later shared a bunch of photos from the premiere to her Instagram page, writing: "Last night at the F1 premiere in my hometown ✨
It was a joy to reunite with the cast and crew, and to celebrate - I couldn’t have been prouder watching everyone shine on screen and on the carpet, all while wearing my couture @balmain gown that made me feel just as radiant. I’ve come away with friendships and memories I’ll treasure forever. 💛 Go see this movie! — it’s a must see ride and speed like you’ve never seen before!"

Karwai Tang / WireImage

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After Simone Ashley’s Erasure From The “F1” Movie Sparked A Conversation About Hollywood’s Treatment Of Actors Of Color, The Director Has Spoken Out Ellen Durney · June 17, 2025

Damson Idris Sheds Light On Simone Ashley's Role Being Cut From "F1" Benjamin Dzialdowski · June 23, 2025

After Years Of Shooting At Actual Formula 1 Races, The Full “F1” Movie Trailer Just Dropped — And The Behind-The-Scenes Details Will Blow Your Mind Ellen Durney · March 13, 2025