Lee Daniels may have found success with his latest Netflix film The Deliverance, but the project has sparked significant controversy. The film, inspired by the true story of a Black family haunted by demons in 2011, stars Andra Day, Mo’Nique, and Glenn Close as the mother of Day’s character.
Much of the backlash centers on Close’s portrayal of Alberta, a white mother in a predominantly Black cast. However, the true uproar erupted over a controversial line spoken by Close’s character during an exorcism scene. While possessed by a demon, Alberta delivers the shocking line to Day’s character: “I can smell your nappy p****y.”
This moment ignited debate across social media, with one viewer calling out Daniels, saying, “Lee Daniels, you will pay for your crimes for having Glenn Close say this.”
Daniels responded simply, “Had to do it.”
Anticipating some reaction, Daniels had previously shared a clip from the film on social media, warning viewers, “Y’all are not ready for Glenn in this.”
Addressing the character’s importance, Daniels added, “Every Black person knows an Alberta. She’s part of the fabric of our community, but we’ve never seen her on screen before. Thank you Glenn for bringing her magnificently to life.”
—
Photo Credit: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com