Bradley Cooper’s Prosthetic Nose Receives Negative Feedback

Netflix recently released a trailer for “Maestro,” a biopic about Leonard Bernstein, the conductor and composer of “West Side Story.” Set to premiere in theaters on November 22 and on the streaming platform the following month, the film is billed as a “towering and fearless love story” and “a love letter to life and art.” However, one aspect seems to be overshadowing the anticipation for the film—the appearance of star Bradley Cooper wearing a fake nose. Cooper, who also co-wrote, produced, and directed “Maestro,” has attracted attention for his prosthetic nose, which has sparked a controversy.

The use of the prosthesis has sparked outcry from some who claim it is antisemitic and an example of “Jewface,” given Bernstein’s Jewish background. Cooper, however, is not Jewish. One critic even compared Cooper’s decision to wear a large nose for the role to the controversy surrounding actors wearing blackface or “yellowface.” The controversy surrounding Cooper’s prosthetic nose has drawn attention to the historical antisemitic stereotype of Jewish people having large, hooked noses, which emerged in the 1930s due to Nazi propaganda. In contrast, other actors such as Cillian Murphy and Tom Conti did not wear prosthetics for their roles as Jewish characters.

Some argue that if Bradley Cooper couldn’t accurately portray Bernstein without resorting to prosthetics, then a Jewish actor should have been cast instead. Critics also note that Cooper’s prosthetic nose doesn’t even resemble Bernstein’s actual nose. Actor Jake Gyllenhaal, who has Jewish heritage, was initially considered for a film about Bernstein but ultimately did not pursue the project. The controversy surrounding Cooper’s prosthetic nose raises questions about Hollywood’s handling of ethnic representation.