Actor Clifton Powell has publicly criticized Spike Lee, asserting the acclaimed director mishandles business dealings with actors. Powell made the remarks during an interview on the podcast The Art of Dialogue.
“I respect Spike Lee’s impact on cinema,” Powell said. “But he often fails to take care of his own people.”
Powell said the issue goes deeper than general missteps. He alleged that Lee specifically mistreated Black actors he knew personally.
“Spike Lee mistreated Black people, some of which I know personally,” Powell stated.
He added that he had held back out of respect. But he stressed that he could not stay silent.
“I’m only sorry that I didn’t tell Spike privately,” Powell admitted.
In a later statement, Powell clarified his sentiment. Though he no longer “dislike[s]” Lee, he remains critical of his business practices.
“I don’t ‘dislike’ Lee anymore, but I’m still not a fan of some of his business practices,” he said.
He also said he stands by his remarks.
“I said what I said and I stand by what I said,” Powell added. “Go read about it.”
Although his comments went viral, Powell urged people to do more than react emotionally. He called on the public to research the issue before taking sides.
“Do your research before dragging me for my comments,” he warned.
The issue raises questions about how powerful filmmakers interact with longtime collaborators. Lee has directed notable films—such as Malcolm X in 1992 and Do the Right Thing in 1989—but Powell believes “legacy” does not excuse questionable behavior.
“We gotta be better than the man to each other,” Powell said, quoting a call to higher conduct.
As of now, Spike Lee has not publicly addressed Powell’s remarks.