Diversity isn't exactly a word Hollywood is known for right now. The Academy Awards is also clouded with the controversy. Now, we have Joseph Fiennes receiving a ton of backlash after reports revealed that he was casted as Michael Jackson in the half-hour comedy, Elizabeth, Michael & Marlon.

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However, it seems even the late music legend isn't happy about Sky Arts' decision. In a 1993 interview with Oprah Winfrey unearthed in an E! Online report, MJ would have not approved the casting choice for Fiennes.

"Why would I want a white child to play me? I'm a black American. I'm a black American. I'm proud to be a black American. I am proud of my race. I am proud of who I am. That's like you [Oprah] wanting an oriental person to play you as a child. Does that make sense? Please people stop believing these horrifying stories," the performer said.

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45-year old Fiennes also shared his shock with everyone else. "I'm a white, middle-class guy from London. I'm as shocked as you may be."

The Shakespeare in Love actor will star alongside Stockard Channing who was casted for the role of Taylor and Scottish actor Brian Cox as Brando.

Tags: Michael Jackson Joseph Fiennes