Timothée Chalamet's Controversial Remarks Unexpectedly Boost London Royal Ballet and Opera Ticket Sales

LONDON (CNA) – The head of the Royal Ballet and Opera in London has thanked Hollywood star Timothée Chalamet, whose controversial remarks about ballet and opera unexpectedly boosted ticket sales.

Alex Beard, Chief Executive of the Royal Ballet and Opera, told The Times that Chalamet's comments earlier this year, claiming "nobody cares" about ballet and opera, had a "very good" reaction.

According to the BBC, Beard stated: "I think what was important was that we didn't respond to Chalamet in that condescending way. We just said, 'Come see what we're doing, brother.' In terms of age, our largest audience demographic is actually 20 to 30 years old."

He added: "And you know what? Our posts received 2.5 million interactions and 500,000 shares on Instagram alone, and ticket sales immediately grew. So, thanks, Timmy (referring to Timothée Chalamet)!"

Timothée Chalamet, during a conversation with Oscar winner Matthew McConaughey at the University of Texas in February this year, said, "I don't want to do ballet or opera. It feels like, 'Hey, even if nobody cares anymore, pass it on.'"

He seemed to quickly realize his gaffe and hastily added, "Respect to all ballet and opera practitioners."

His remarks drew criticism from practitioners, opera houses, and ballet companies, but some also saw it as a promotional opportunity.

The Seattle Opera, for instance, turned the controversy into a promotional campaign, posting on Instagram, "Just enter discount code TIMOTHEE to get 14% off select seats for 'Carmen' before this weekend. Timmy, you're welcome too." (Edited by Wang Chia-yu) 1150414