Jodie Turner-Smith, one of the stars of the recently discontinued Star Wars series The Acolyte, has spoken out regarding Disney’s lack of response to the racist backlash its actors have faced. In a candid interview with Glamour, Turner-Smith, who portrayed Mother Aniseya, expressed her frustration, stating that it is inappropriate for a corporate giant like Disney to remain silent when its talent is targeted with online hatred. She emphasized, “It’s really unfair not to say anything. It would be refreshing if those with substantial financial resources showed their backing and made a strong statement against such behavior.”
Turner-Smith’s remarks follow her co-star Amandla Stenberg’s critical reflections on the negativity surrounding the series. Stenberg mentioned that the cast has dealt with overwhelming vitriol, linked to what she described as hyper-conservative bigotry. After the series was canceled on August 28, she took to Instagram to convey the depth of the hostility directed at them since the show’s announcement. Stenberg added that participating in the Star Wars universe had been a profound honor for her and she wanted enthusiastic fans to know they are appreciated.
The Acolyte debuted on Disney+ in June and concluded its first season in July, receiving praise from critics for bringing new perspectives to the beloved franchise. However, it encountered backlash from a segments of fans who accused it of being overly “woke” for its casting choices, particularly for featuring a Black LGBTQ actor in a leading role. Critics rated the show at 78% on Rotten Tomatoes, contrasting sharply with the user score, which plummeted to 18%.
Following the announcement of the show’s cancellation, Lee Jung-jae, who played Jedi Master Sol, expressed hope for potential future stories and seasons. Turner-Smith’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among actors and audiences alike, urging major companies to stand firm against racism and support their talent under pressure from vocal detractors.
As this conversation continues to unfold, many are left wondering what accountability looks like in the entertainment industry when faced with such societal challenges.