Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) recently revealed he refused to audition for the hit movie Sinners because the script required him to say the n-word. The rapper and actor shared this during an interview on The Pat McAfee Show, explaining his decision was based on personal boundaries.
The role in question was for a vampire character in Ryan Coogler’s horror-thriller Sinners, which stars Michael B. Jordan, Hailee Steinfeld, and Jack O’Connell. The film has been a major success, earning over $365 million worldwide since its release in April 2025.
Why Machine Gun Kelly Rejected the Role
Kelly said he was offered the part of Bert, a former KKK member turned vampire, who later attacks a family in the film. The audition required him to say the racial slur, which he refused to do.
“Like ‘Sinners,’ I was supposed to be in that. The vampire, they had me set up to do the audition—it’s the one that’s in the house, so he’s the second vampire, the one that the guy comes and eats the family. In the audition, he has to say the ‘n-word’ and I wouldn’t do it.”
The role eventually went to actor Peter Dreimanis, who played the character in the final film. Kelly’s decision earned praise from Darius Butler, a co-host on the show, who gave him a fist bump for standing by his principles.
Kelly’s Acting Career and Future Goals
Despite missing out on Sinners, Kelly remains hopeful about his acting career. He mentioned that many movies he auditioned for ended up being big hits, but he believes things will work out in time.
“I have a lot of aspirations to be in movies, it just hasn’t panned out that way. I’m on universal timing. It’ll align. The angels will put something in the works.”
Kelly has previously appeared in films like Bird Box, The King of Staten Island, and Nerve. He also expressed his desire to act while he still looks young, hinting at more upcoming projects.
About the Movie Sinners
Sinners is a supernatural horror-thriller set in the 1930s Deep South, blending historical drama with vampire mythology. The film follows twin brothers, played by Michael B. Jordan, who return from World War I and encounter a terrifying evil in their hometown.
The movie has been praised for its bold storytelling and strong performances. Critics compared it to a mix of O Brother, Where Art Thou? and From Dusk Till Dawn, calling it a unique take on racial and social themes.
Fan and Industry Reactions
Many fans supported Kelly’s decision to avoid using the racial slur, while others debated whether actors should separate personal morals from their roles. Some pointed out that actors like Leonardo DiCaprio have played racist characters before, but Kelly chose a different path.
Kelly’s upcoming album, Americana, is set to release on August 8, 2025. He also has a song featured as the anthem for the 2025-2026 College Football Season, showing his continued success in music.
The Impact of Kelly’s Decision
This situation highlights the ongoing debate about language in films and whether actors should compromise their values for a role. Kelly’s choice reflects a growing awareness among celebrities about the weight of their words, even in fictional settings.
While he missed out on a major film, his stance has sparked discussions about artistic integrity and personal boundaries in Hollywood.
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