Amanda Seyfried is facing backlash over her unexpected role in a new documentary about disgraced Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes, but plenty of fans are coming to her defense.
The actress, who previously earned widespread acclaim for portraying Holmes in The Dropout, returned to the controversial figure in a surprising way for filmmaker Nathan Fielder’s new project, You Can See Everything. While some viewers have criticized Amanda’s involvement, others believe her performance deserves even more recognition. Read more about the situation below.
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Amanda Seyfried Reprises Her Role As Elizabeth Holmes In Nathan Fielder's New Documentary
The Mamma Mia star makes a surprise appearance in You Can See Everything, a documentary directed by Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim that offers an unusual look into Elizabeth Holmes' life before and after she began serving her prison sentence for defrauding investors. The film, which was released in theaters on October 16th, follows Elizabeth and her partner, Billy Evans, as the filmmakers attempt to understand the former tech executive and her story.
Amanda appears as herself and reprises her role as the Theranos founder in reenactments of conversations and encounters that the filmmakers were unable to capture on camera. Her return to the role adds another layer to the documentary and Elizabeth's overall public perception.
Her performance as Elizabeth in the 2022 miniseries on the Theranos story earned her an Emmy Award, and she once again steps into the Stanford University dropout's mannerisms and speaking style for the new film.
Fans Defend Amanda Seyfried After Viewers Bash Her Involvement In The Documentary
Despite praise for her performance, the Housemaid actress has faced backlash from some viewers who questioned whether participating in the documentary was the right decision. According to Page Six, some critics had problems with her behavior and involvement in the project, with some suggesting that her participation was shameful or at odds with feminism.
"Amanda Seyfried overall does not come off well in You Can See Everything," wrote an X user. "Lots of 'women protecting women' posturing from her until she gets accused of perhaps also causing Elizabeth some degree of pain, after which she immediately deflects."
"Amanda Seyfried defending Holmes as a victim of male manipulation until Holmes accused her of participating in a sensationalized version of the Theranos scandal and then flipping out about how it is just TV was truly gross," responded another. "I hope she gets redragged for it."
However, other viewers rushed to defend Amanda, arguing that her portrayal of Holmes was a highlight of the documentary rather than something deserving of backlash. Supporters praised her acting abilities and more.
"No!" commented an Instagram user. "That woman's performance was Oscar-worthy!"
"Get out of here," added another. "Her performance was stunning, both in her rehearsed portrayal of Holmes but even more in her natural, human reactions to things as they unfolded. Her curiosity and emotions served as a literal representation for the audience."
"The movie made us love her more," one user noted, as another commented, "Anyone who sees it will fall in love with her personality; whether you agree with her politics or not, she was the voice for the audience in the movie."
"She's incredible in it, and it gives the film just another layer of complexity," a user commented.
"Best part of the documentary by a LANDSLIDE," added another.
