Quentin Tarantino fires back at ex-star’s explosive claims

Quentin Tarantino slams Rosanna Arquette over ‘racist’ 'Pulp Fiction' claims

By Maryam Nadeem March 11, 2026
Quentin Tarantino fires back at ex-star’s explosive claims
Quentin Tarantino fires back at ex-star’s explosive claims

Quentin Tarantino has fired back after Rosanna Arquette slammed his use of the N-word in Pulp Fiction as “racist and creepy.” 

The 66-year-old actress, who played Jody in the cult classic, recently questioned why the director seems to have a “hall pass” to use the offensive word in his films.

But the 62-year-old auteur didn’t hold back, suggesting her comments are more about publicity than principle. 

In a pointed statement, Tarantino said: “I hope the publicity you’re getting from 132 different media outlets writing your name and printing your picture was worth disrespecting me and a film I remember quite clearly you were thrilled to be a part of? … Shows a decided lack of class, no less honour.”

Arquette acknowledged to The Sunday Times that the movie was iconic and impressive in many ways, but she admitted she was fed up with the repeated use of the N-word. 

She explained that she could not understand why Tarantino seemed to be given a free pass to use the term.

She’s not alone as the legendary director Spike Lee previously criticised Tarantino’s “excessive use” of the word in both Jackie Brown and Django Unchained, calling it “disrespectful to my ancestors.” 

Tarantino, however, has consistently refused to change a word of his scripts, insisting in 2012: “It’s my job to ignore that. I believe in what I’m doing wholeheartedly and passionately.”

It's worth noting that the drama adds to a string of Reservoir Dogs star controversies. 

Last year he caused a stir by calling Paul Dano a “weak sister” for his role in There Will Be Blood, a comment that left film fans buzzing online.

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