# Controversy: Lee Daniels’ The Butler

> Recent blockbuster film Lee Daniels’ The Butler has sparked controversy around the truth behind the protagonist’s life as well as its portrait of Ronald Regan.

31 October 2013 · News

Canonical: https://insights1.uca.org.au/articles/controversy-lee-daniels-the-butler/

Recent blockbuster film *Lee Daniels’ The Butler* has sparked controversy around the truth behind the protagonist’s life as well as its [historically inaccurate portrait](https://www.forbes.com/sites/realspin/2013/08/28/the-butler-presents-an-historically-inaccurate-portrait-of-ronald-reagan/)of Ronald Regan. The plot involves the life of a black butler who grew up in the cotton plantations of the American South in a time of social unrest to ultimately serve under 8 different presidents in the White House over a period of 34 years. Commentators claim there are also [inaccuracies](https://www.slate.com/blogs/browbeat/2013/08/15/the_butler_movie_true_story_eugene_allen_vs_cecil_gaines_lee_daniels_fictional.html) surrounding the title character’s life events and family.

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