- Boyega says Star Wars has always felt like a “whitest, elite space.”
- He criticizes how Black characters are sidelined in major franchises.
- Fans are divided, with some supporting him and others pushing back.
John Boyega, best known for playing Finn in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, has once again spoken out about the franchise’s lack of diversity. In Apple TV+’s documentary Number One on the Call Sheet, he described Star Wars as a predominantly white and elitist space. He noted that Black actors are accepted only in secondary roles but not as leading heroes.
The actor has previously criticized Disney for the way it treated Finn’s character. He suggested that his role was sidelined despite early marketing making him seem like a central protagonist.
The Debate Over Diversity in Star Wars
Boyega’s remarks touch on a broader issue of how Hollywood franchises handle representation. While Star Wars has had characters like Lando Calrissian and Mace Windu, their presence was limited compared to white protagonists. The actor’s frustration highlights a recurring pattern in blockbuster films, where diverse characters often receive less narrative importance.
His criticism is not just about the Star Wars films but also about the fan culture surrounding them. The backlash he faced after his casting as Finn—ranging from online harassment to racist comments—reflects a deeper problem. This problem shows in how audiences react to inclusivity in major franchises. The idea that a Black actor leading a Star Wars film is met with hostility points to a resistance against change in certain fan circles.
Despite this, Boyega has expressed that he has moved on from Star Wars and is focused on projects that give him more creative agency. He remains an advocate for diversity in Hollywood, calling for more substantial roles for Black actors rather than token representation. His willingness to address industry-wide problems has made him a key voice in discussions about equality in entertainment.
The entertainment industry has gradually made progress, with more franchises embracing diverse storytelling. However, as Boyega’s experiences show, the battle for equal representation is ongoing. Studios must ensure that inclusivity isn’t just a marketing tool but a genuine commitment to storytelling.
John Boyega’s criticism of Star Wars sheds light on a much larger issue in Hollywood. While diversity is improving, true representation means giving actors from all backgrounds meaningful and impactful roles, not just secondary ones.
“They’re okay with us playing the best friend, but once we touch their heroes, once we lead, once we trailblaze, it’s like, ‘Oh my God, it’s just a bit too much!'” – John Boyega
