The success of Netflix’s series “Wednesday” in securing a second season sparked hope among fans, particularly for the return of characters, even those who met their demise, like Principal Weems portrayed by Gwendoline Christie. However, the possibility of Percy Hynes White reprising his role as Xavier Thorpe is now clouded by shocking allegations against him.
The allegations, voiced by multiple women including @milkievich on Twitter, shed light on disturbing incidents involving White during his high school years in Toronto and between the ages of 17 and 20. They accuse him and his group of friends of predatory behavior, manipulation of young women at parties by intoxicating them, assault, derogatory name-calling, non-consensual sharing of intimate photos online, and targeting minors. Additionally, there are claims that he aided a rapist and used a now-deleted Twitter account, @impercenator, to post problematic tweets.
The situation escalated when a video surfaced showing White using a racial slur. Despite the allegations, White initially remained silent, only disabling comments on his Instagram. However, in June 2023, he refuted the accusations, labeling them as a “campaign of misinformation.” Nevertheless, his delayed response did little to counter the fallout, leaving fans in limbo regarding his potential return for Wednesday’s second season.
Amidst supporters rallying behind White via a petition to prevent him from losing projects, speculation mounts about Netflix’s stance on his involvement in the upcoming season. As of now, only Jenna Ortega’s return has been confirmed, raising uncertainties regarding White’s future with the series. Comparisons with other celebrities facing similar allegations, such as Kevin Spacey and Danny Masterson, who lost roles due to accusations, provide a cautionary backdrop. Conversely, cases like Jonathan Majors, whose fate with Marvel hinges on an ongoing assault allegation trial, suggest Netflix might await the resolution of White’s situation before making a decision.
While fans speculate about possible replacements for White’s character, the ultimate outcome remains contingent on Netflix’s response to the #cancelpercy movement. The unfolding of this issue in the entertainment industry’s context of reckoning with problematic behavior and the fate of those accused reflects the complex landscape surrounding Percy Hynes White’s potential involvement in Wednesday’s second season.