Texas Ballet and Opera Fire Back at Timothée Chalamet

Timothée Chalamet probably didn’t expect to start a full-blown arts debate when he made a quick comment about opera and ballet earlier this year. But that’s exactly what happened.

During a February 2026 town hall hosted by Variety and CNN at the University of Texas at Austin, the actor joked that he wouldn’t want to work in ballet or opera because “no one cares about this anymore.” The remark drew laughs in the room at the time, but once the clip resurfaced online, the response from the arts world was swift.

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Ballet dancers, opera singers and arts organizations across the country quickly pushed back- and several companies right here in Texas decided to join the conversation in the best way possible: by letting their talent speak for itself.

Texas Ballet Companies Show Why the Art Form Is Thriving

Some Texas ballet companies responded directly to the moment by sharing videos of their dancers in action, reminding audiences that the art form is very much alive.

From powerful leaps to intricate choreography, the clips highlight the athleticism, discipline and artistry that go into every performance. And judging by the reactions online, plenty of people still care.

For many fans, it was also a reminder that ballet isn’t just something happening in New York or Paris, there’s serious talent right here in Texas!

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Texas Opera Voices Join the Conversation

Opera companies across Texas also chimed in after the comments circulated online.

Instead of getting defensive, some organizations chose to spotlight their singers, sharing videos that show just how powerful and emotional live opera can be.

Texas Performers Are Letting Their Talent Do the Talking

While the original comment sparked plenty of debate online, the responses from arts groups have taken a different tone.

Rather than focusing on the criticism, many companies have used the moment as a chance to highlight the performers, musicians and dancers who keep these art forms alive every day.

And if the response online is any indication, plenty of people are still showing up, and still cheering.