Hellboy” reboot is now surrounded by controversy as Ed Skrein decided to leave his role as Major Ben Daimio after public outcry. The role is said to be an Asian character from “Hellboy” graphic novels and it once again reignited the debates about whitewashing that has been a long issue in Hollywood. To make his exit official, the 34-year-old star released an official statement on his Twitter page airing his side as to why he has to desert the film.

Skrein’s statement

Ed Skrein said in his statement, obtained by Variety, that portraying Major Ben Daimio's role has to be in a "culturally accurate way." This, for him, is important for the people.

He believed that if they are going to abandon the responsibility to accurately cast the most fitting star, it "would continue a worrying tendency to obscure ethnic minority stories and voices in the Arts.

The rapper added that he knows that it is important to respect and honor the craft. Therefore he decided to let go of Major Ben Daimio’s role so people behind the film can recast an appropriate actor to play the character.

Ed Skrein also explained that the representation of ethnic diversity is very important for him as he has a mixed family legacy. He went on to say that it is their responsibility to make a moral decision in these difficult times to let the inclusivity have its own voice. He wishes that a day will come when this type of thing is unnecessary and the industry will give equal representation in the Arts.

The producers’ counter statement

“Hellboy” reboot’s producers from Lionsgate and Millennium film production companies Larry Gordon and Lloyd Levin revealed their counter statement obtained via TV Line to answer Ed Skrein’s claim.

The two admitted that Ed came to them and had strong emotions about the issue.

They said that they fully understand and support his “unselfish decision” and promised to recast Major Ben Daimio’s role with an actor more fitting in the graphic novel’s character.

“It was not our intent to be insensitive to issues of authenticity and ethnicity,” they explained.

Other details about the film

“Hellboy” reboot is set to be released in 2018.

The iconic Mike Mignola's comic book character is going to be played by the “Stranger Things” actor David Harbour.

The 42-year-old star will be joined by Ian McShane as Professor Broom, who was originally played by John Hurt in the 2004 movie. Milla Jovovich will also be seen in the movie as Nimue the Blood Queen. The movies about Red were all filmed by Guillermo Del Toro.