After being dubbed a more “difficult diva” than Jennifer Lopez or Cardi B by those on the set of their stripper movie “Hustlers,” actress Constance Wu is proving her prima donna proclivities by insisting she get top billing on the new movie.
Fresh from her “Fresh Off the Boat” renewal drama, reps for the “Crazy Rich Asians” star’s new film have contacted multiple media outlets to ensure Wu is listed as the headliner for “Hustlers,” above co-stars Lopez — who also produced the film — and Cardi B, Page Six has learned. The film, based on the real story of savvy strippers out for revenge on their Wall Street clients, also stars Julia Stiles, Lili Reinhart and Lizzo.
While “Hustlers” premieres in September, select publications have been walloped with a warning from the studio that Wu must be named first in the press as the film’s biggest star. A source said Lopez and her production partners signed off on Wu’s top billing “a long time ago,” adding, “Constance is in the unique position of being a part of projects that are breaking through Asian-American representation in Hollywood.”
Wu famously caused a commotion when she tweeted, “F–king hell … Ugh. F–k” upon the renewal of her ABC comedy “Boat” in May. A fan replied the re-up was “great news,” but Wu wailed, “No it’s not.” After her ungracious outburst, Wu explained, “I was temporarily upset … bc its renewal meant I had to give up another project I was really passionate about … In general, I’ve always sought artistic challenge over comfort and ease.”
Then, on the NYC set of “Hustlers” this spring, Wu made enemies anew with her diva demands. One on-set source told Page Six that Wu was “a pain in the f–king ass. She just won’t agree to do anything … It’s like a cliché. She is very talented — but all signs are pointing to a difficult diva.” Another insider added, “She’s a total piece of work. She thinks it’s OK to treat people badly and say out loud whatever comes to her.” To make a sticky situation stinky, Wu even let her pet bunny poop all over the Chelsea penthouse rented for her by the “Hustlers” production.