“I Don’t Even Really Have Words for It”- Zendaya Reacts to Samantha Morton’s Unexpected 'The Odyssey' Scene

Published 07/21/2026, 11:56 PM EDT

via Imago

Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey continues to spark conversation, not only for its ambitious adaptation of Homer's epic but also for the unforgettable performances delivered by its star-studded cast. While audiences are still unpacking the film's biggest moments, the actors themselves are sharing the scenes that left the strongest impression on them.

Among them is Zendaya, who portrays Athena in the mythological epic. During the film's promotional tour, the actress recalled one particular sequence that completely caught her off guard, teasing a moment so striking that she admitted she still struggles to describe it.

Zendaya teases the unforgettable The Odyssey moment that left her speechless

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While speaking to Entertainment Tonight, Zendaya reflected on Samantha Morton's performance as Circe, revealing that one sequence stood out from the moment she first read the script. Rather than spoiling the scene, she emphasized how unexpectedly powerful it was and how it stayed with her long after filming.

"There is a scene, you know that she does that I remember reading that I was like 'Oh my goodness!' I don't really have words for it," Zendaya said during the interview with Entertainment Tonight.

Samantha Morton bei der Premiere des Kinofilms The Odyssey Die Odyssee im AMC Lincoln Square Theater. New York, 14.07.2026 *** Samantha Morton at the premiere of the movie *The Odyssey* at the AMC Lincoln Square Theater in New York, July 14, 2026 Foto:xJ.xShorex xFuturexImagex odyssey_ny_6762

Samantha Morton's portrayal of Circe has already emerged as one of the film's most talked-about performances as quoted by Zendaya on Entertainment Tonight, with early praise focusing on the character's haunting transformation sequence. The practical-effects-driven set piece has earned attention for its immersive execution, making it one of the standout moments in Nolan's visually ambitious epic.

Zendaya & Lupita Nyong’o Fan-Girl Over One of Netflix's Greatest Hits During 'The Odyssey' Press

Beyond her praise for a co-star's performance, Zendaya also turned heads during the film's promotional events with a fashion choice rooted in ancient history.

Zendaya's ancient jewelry added another layer to The Odyssey's mythology

At The Odyssey's London photocall, Zendaya's accessories were far more than statement pieces. The actress wore genuine 18-karat gold and diamond artifacts dating back roughly 3,000 years to the first millennium BC. Designed by Glenn Spiro and sourced from London jeweler Barron London, the museum-grade antiquities transformed her red carpet appearance into a tribute to the ancient world that inspired the film.

New York Premiere Of Universal Pictures The Odyssey MANHATTAN, NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK, USA - JULY 14: Zendaya wearing Matieres Fecales Fall 2025 and Chopard jewelry, styled by Law Roach arrives at the New York Premiere Of Universal Pictures The Odyssey held at AMC Lincoln Square 13 on July 14, 2026 in Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States. New York City AMC Lincoln Square 13 New York United States Copyright: xImagexPressxAgencyx

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Archaeologist Annelise Baer later explained in a July 10 Instagram video that the ornaments were likely never intended to be earrings. Instead, they were probably decorative sunburst ornaments commonly associated with ancient Iranian craftsmanship. Paired with Zendaya's white Jacquemus column gown and draped headscarf, the historic jewelry reinforced the goddess-inspired aesthetic, making the photocall feel like an extension of The Odyssey's timeless mythology.

As anticipation for The Odyssey continues to build, both the film's unforgettable performances and its carefully crafted promotional moments are proving that Nolan's epic is capturing attention well beyond the screen. With co-stars continuing to single out standout moments from the film, excitement surrounding its biggest surprises shows no signs of slowing down.

Tom Holland Had the Perfect Response When Asked if Zendaya’s Athena Loved Matt Damon’s Odysseus

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What do you think will be the most unforgettable scene in The Odyssey? Share your thoughts in the comments! 

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Karishma Dasgupta

610 articles

Karishma is an entertainment journalist at Netflix Junkie. She enjoys digging deep into stories and bringing clarity to the often fast-moving world of entertainment. She holds a double Master’s degree in Fashion Business Management and Digital Marketing.

Edited By: Aliza Siddiqui

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