Dear Evan Hansen star Ben Platt responds to criticism over his age

Dear Evan Hansen star Ben Platt has responded to criticism over his age ahead of the movie adaptation.

The 27-year-old actor is to reprise his role of high school student Evan in the upcoming big screen adaptation of the hit stage musical.

Platt originated the role on stage on Broadway, picking up a Tony award for his performance.

But there’s been quite some discourse online as well as early reviews with some questioning the casting choice.

Speaking in June about the response, Platt said: “People like to have something to say that is negative, regardless of what it is. And so if my thing is something that I can’t control at all — which is my age — then bring it on. I’m glad it’s not about the performance or my voice or anything that actually matters.

The actor said in an interview on The Zach Sang Show: “I think the reaction is largely from people who don’t understand the context of the piece — the fact that I created the role and workshopped it for three years.

“Were I not to do the movie, it probably wouldn’t get made. And so, I think, my defensive response is to want to go onto Twitter and be like, ‘F you, guys. You don’t even know that this wouldn’t exist without me.’ Of course, that’s not true entirely and not my place to say.

“All I have to do is let the work speak for itself.”

More recently, Platt was defended by his fellow cast in an interview with Variety.

Amandla Stenberg, who will play Alana Beck in the upcoming film adaptation, said: “Has no one seen Grease?”

Meanwhile Platt kept reiterated: “I’m excited for people to see the movie. I think it’ll speak for itself.”

Dear Evan Hansen is currently due to open in US theatres in September and later in October in the UK.