Amandla Stenberg expressed disappointment but not surprise at the cancellation of the Disney+ series “The Acolyte,” which had a more substantial narrative than “The Book of Boba Fett.” Despite being the streaming service’s most-watched series premiere in 2024, “The Acolyte” faced challenges from the start, including backlash from fans unhappy with the show’s casting and premise. Stenberg, who starred in the series, shared that the cast faced significant vitriol and hateful comments from detractors, including hyper-conservative bigotry and prejudice. This negative reception could have contributed to the show’s cancellation, even though there were efforts to continue the series.
Stenberg’s experience with the backlash reminded some fans of past incidents where actors in the “Star Wars” franchise, such as John Boyega and Kelly Marie Tran, faced racist and sexist comments from online trolls. The creator of the franchise, George Lucas, has addressed criticism of diversity in the series by emphasizing acceptance and equality for all individuals, regardless of their appearance. However, some fans expressed opposition to what they perceived as a “woke agenda” or “anti-white propaganda” in newer projects like “The Acolyte,” leading to further divisions among the fanbase.
Despite the challenges and criticism, some members of the cast and crew, including Stenberg and her co-star Manny Jacinto, have expressed a desire for the show to continue with a second season. Jacinto even described it as his “personal life goal” to see the series return. The hope for a revival of “The Acolyte” highlights the dedication and passion of those involved in the project, even in the face of adversity and negative feedback. It also reflects the ongoing commitment of Disney and Lucasfilm to diverse casting choices, despite resistance from certain segments of the fan community.
Moving forward, it is essential to address the issue of review-bombing and online harassment directed towards “Star Wars” projects and their cast members. Enhancing measures to prevent and counteract these negative campaigns could help create a more supportive and inclusive environment for all involved in the production and enjoyment of the franchise. While racist attitudes and objections may persist among a vocal minority of fans, efforts to promote diversity and representation in science fiction should continue unabated. The resilience and determination of individuals like Stenberg and Jacinto demonstrate the importance of pushing back against bigotry and intolerance in the entertainment industry.
As discussions continue about the future of “The Acolyte” and similar projects, the need for greater support and protection for marginalized communities within the “Star Wars” fandom remains paramount. Encouraging diversity both on-screen and behind the scenes can enrich storytelling and broaden the appeal of the franchise to audiences worldwide. By championing inclusivity and representation, “Star Wars” can uphold its legacy as a groundbreaking and transformative cultural phenomenon that celebrates the diversity of human experience. The challenges faced by “The Acolyte” and its cast underscore the ongoing struggle for acceptance and equality in a galaxy far, far away, reflecting broader societal issues that demand attention and action.
