Advertisement
Simone Ashley’s fans were eagerly anticipating her big-screen appearance alongside Brad Pitt in F1: The Movie, but recent developments surrounding the final cut have sparked frustration and disappointment. The talented Bridgerton actress, originally believed to have a substantial role in the film, appears to have had most of her scenes edited out, with reports suggesting that her part has been reduced to little more than a cameo. This has prompted a wave of reactions online, especially among those who were planning to watch the movie solely for her presence.
Social media platforms, especially TikTok, quickly filled with disheartened posts as fans expressed their dismay at the news. Viewers noted her absence from the film’s most recent trailers, reinforcing suspicions that her screen time was significantly trimmed. Many shared that Ashley’s involvement had been a major draw for them, and with her role so diminished, some now say they’ll skip the film altogether. The reaction has been especially strong given the anticipation surrounding her Hollywood crossover into such a high-profile production.
Despite the disappointment, Simone Ashley has responded to the situation with grace and professionalism. In a previous interview, she acknowledged that the film was largely centered on Brad Pitt and Damson Idris, and expressed gratitude for simply being a part of it. She reflected positively on the experience, particularly the opportunity to film at actual Grand Prix races, and showed no public bitterness about the outcome.
Director Joseph Kosinski has since addressed the backlash, explaining that editing down storylines is a normal part of the filmmaking process. He stated that two or three subplots, including Ashley’s, ultimately didn’t make it into the final cut as the team focused on tightening the film’s narrative. His comments suggest that creative decisions, rather than anything personal, were behind the reduced screen time.
Still, the situation has left many questioning how female characters—particularly women of color—are being utilized in major Hollywood productions. While Ashley herself seems unfazed and grateful for the experience, her fans are calling for more substantial roles and visibility for her moving forward. As F1: The Movie nears its release, the disappointment lingers for those who had hoped to see her shine on the international stage.