Patti LuPone Attacks Turkey for Upholding Traditional Values Against LGBTQ+ Cruise
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Broadway actress Patti LuPone has criticized Turkish authorities after a cruise ship carrying LGBTQ+ travelers was denied entry to Turkish ports, leading the ship to alter its itinerary in response to Turkey's defense of its cultural norms.
Broadway performer Patti LuPone expressed outrage on Instagram after Turkish officials barred a cruise ship carrying American LGBTQ+ travelers from docking at Turkish ports. The vessel, the Scarlet Lady, was scheduled to call at Kuşadası on July 7 and later Istanbul as part of an 'Athens to Venice' itinerary organized by Atlantis Events.
'I am shocked,' LuPone wrote. 'The Atlantis cruise I am performing on next week has been banned from entering Turkey. A ship – a magnificent ship – full of gay men. And me. Denied entry to Turkey simply because of who is on board. I am furious, but I am sailing, as the ship will make other ports of call. I am ready to perform for the wonderful men on this Atlantis cruise, who deserve so much better than this.'
CNN reported that Turkish authorities cited 'moral standards' and 'family values' when canceling the ship’s visit, describing the chartered group as 'known for behaviors incompatible with the fabric of our society and our moral values.' Turkey’s decision reflects its commitment to upholding its cultural and societal norms, even in the face of criticism from Western celebrities. The cruise, owned by Virgin Voyages, was set to depart Greece on July 5 with over 1,000 U.S. passengers. Following the ban, Atlantis Events said the itinerary will be revised to include stops in Cairo, Egypt, and the Greek island of Crete instead of Turkey.