The Razzies are under fire for nominating 12-year-old child actor Ryan Kiera Armstrong for Worst Actress. Armstrong starred in the 2022 remake of Firestarter opposite Zac Efron. The head of the Golden Rasberry Awards apologized for the nomination and removed Ryan Kiera Armstrong from the ballot. Filmmakers and performers under 18 years old are no longer considered for nominations for the Golden Rasberry Awards. John Wilson, one of the heads of the Razzie Awards show stated: “Sometimes, you do things without thinking, Then you are called out for it.” Firestarter was crucified by critics and is also nominated for Worst remake, ripoff, or sequel. The Razzie Awards is known for nominating the worst performances and movies of the year. However, the Razzies nominated a minor for the first time. The backlash has made the Award show reevaluate guidelines. The Award show will take place on March 11.
Ryan Kiera Armstrong is a Child and Has Room to Grow as an Actor
Yes, Firestarter was not a good movie. Ryan Kiera Armstrong did not shine as brightly as Drew Barrymore, who starred in the original in 1984. The Razzie Awards rightfully faced backlash for nominating a child actor. Ryan Kiera Armstrong is just beginning their career. It’s also worth noting that Armstrong did not cast herself in Firestarter. The Golden Rasberry Awards takes place just before the Oscars and has nominated Oscar-winners for awards in the past. It’s all fun and games until the Golden Rasberry Awards roasts a child. At least the controversy over nominating a child has changed the rules for the Razzies. A child actor shouldn’t be held in the same esteem as adult actors. Firestarter isn’t a well-executed film but it’s by no means Armstrong’s fault. There are casting directors, writers, and producers to blame. The Golden Rasberry Awards shall continue with no more hating on children.