Acolyte Star Calls Disney Out for Racism Against Cast: 'Unfair'

Jodie Turner-Smith, star of the canceled Disney+ series Star Wars: The Acolyte, has criticized Disney for their inadequate response to online racism directed at the show’s cast. In a recent interview, she expressed disappointment with the company for not defending its stars against the hostility they face, particularly bigotry and harassment on social media. Turner-Smith argues that Disney should take a stand and make clear that such behavior is unacceptable, noting the significant buying power of people of color. This situation follows prior incidents where other Star Wars actors faced similar racist backlash, highlighting a persistent issue within the fandom. The ongoing discussion emphasizes the need for studios to better protect their talent from toxicity online.

Jodie Turner-Smith stated that Disney should actively defend its stars against online harassment and bigotry. She believes it is unfair for the company to remain silent while its actors face racist attacks and that a strong stance against such behavior would be beneficial for all parties involved.

Star Wars: The Acolyte, a live-action series exploring the dark side of the Force set in the final days of the High Republic, has become a focal point in discussions about representation and fandom toxicity. Despite its early promise, the show was canceled after one season, sparking fan campaigns for its revival. This series was part of Disney's broader strategy to expand the Star Wars universe but faced challenges related to its diverse casting and the reactions it provoked among segments of the fanbase. The series aimed to offer a new perspective on the iconic franchise, highlighting inclusivity and addressing the need for change within its fan community.