Ariela Barer Replaces Odessa A’zion in A24’s “Deep Cuts” After Casting Controversy

A24’s upcoming romantic drama “Deep Cuts” has found a new star.

Ariela Barer, known for her role on HBO’s The Last of Us, has officially joined the film, stepping into the role of Zoe Gutierrez after Odessa A'zion exited the project following controversy over her casting.

The film is based on Deep Cuts by Holly Brickley. In the novel, Zoe is described as half-Jewish and half-Mexican. A’zion, who is Jewish, revealed she had not read the book before accepting the role and was unaware of the character’s full background. Once online criticism surfaced accusing the production of whitewashing, A’zion quickly stepped away.

In a candid Instagram Stories post in late January, A’zion told fans she was “NOT doing this movie,” apologizing for not fully understanding the character before signing on. She explained that she originally auditioned for a different role and immediately accepted Zoe when it was offered. After learning more about the character, she said she felt it was important to step aside.

“I’d never take a role from someone else that’s meant to do it,” she wrote, adding that there were others more suited to portray Zoe.

Now, Barer — who is Mexican American and Jewish — has taken over the part. She previously appeared in How to Blow Up a Pipeline and See You When I See You, and her casting has been met with support, including from A’zion herself.

Responding to the news, A’zion celebrated Barer’s hiring on Instagram, saying she stands by her decision and is thrilled with the outcome. Barer also praised A’zion publicly, thanking her for “leading with integrity.”

“Deep Cuts” is being written and directed by Sean Durkin, best known for The Iron Claw. The film is set in the 2000s and centers on two music-obsessed twenty-somethings navigating ambition, love and adulthood over a transformative decade.

Barer joins previously announced cast members Cailee Spaeny, star of Priscilla, and Drew Starkey of Queer. Austin Butler and Saoirse Ronan were originally attached to lead the project but exited due to scheduling conflicts.

In the film, Zoe is the close friend of Spaeny’s character Percy and the ex of Starkey’s Joe, placing her at the emotional center of the story’s complicated relationships.

Production on “Deep Cuts” is expected to begin soon, with A24 backing the project.