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Ben-Hur 'gay sub-plot' not necessary in 2016, says star Toby Kebbell

One of the British stars of Ben-Hur has said the new film did not need to repeat the apparent gay sub-plot of the Oscar-winning epic starring Charlton Heston. Toby Kebbell, who plays Messala in the latest adaptation, said the 1959 version - which won a record 11 Oscars - was made at a time when 'the gay context was very important'. Claims of homosexual overtones in 1959's Ben-Hur emerged after the late screenwriter Gore Vidal said the title character - played by Heston - and Messala - played by Stephen Boyd - were former lovers. Heston reportedly dismissed the claim. (Footage by PA Media via Getty Images)
One of the British stars of Ben-Hur has said the new film did not need to repeat the apparent gay sub-plot of the Oscar-winning epic starring Charlton Heston. Toby Kebbell, who plays Messala in the latest adaptation, said the 1959 version - which won a record 11 Oscars - was made at a time when 'the gay context was very important'. Claims of homosexual overtones in 1959's Ben-Hur emerged after the late screenwriter Gore Vidal said the title character - played by Heston - and Messala - played by Stephen Boyd - were former lovers. Heston reportedly dismissed the claim. (Footage by PA Media via Getty Images)
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DETAILS

Credit:
Press Association
Editorial #:
1365911652
Collection:
PA Media
Date created:
August 17, 2016
Upload date:
License type:
Rights-ready
Release info:
Not released.ÌýMore information
Clip length:
00:03:56:11
Location:
Los Angeles, United Kingdom
Mastered to:
MPEG-4 8-bit H.264 HD 1920x1080 25p
Source:
PA Media
Object name:
6350_final