Star Wars Actor Ahmed Best Exults Over Jar Jar Binks' Role in The Phantom Menace
Jar Jar Binks's Creator, Ahmed Best, Speaks Out Against Star Wars Fandom's Dark Side
Star Wars' iconic character, Jar Jar Binks, earned a twisted amount of infamy, thanks to the franchise's infamous toxic fanbase. The unlucky recipient of their vitriol? Ahmed Best, who breathed life into Jar Jar in George Lucas' prequel trilogy.
Best's portrayal of the comedic character, chiefly aimed at capturing the kids' hearts, proved to be a playground for adult fans, who picked on him mercilessly. The backlash was relentless and stretched far beyond playful teasing. Best described the impact in a heart-wrenching conversation with the New York Times. "It took a toll on me, a mortal one," he shared. "It was the first time in my life where I couldn't see a future. I didn't see any hope."
Fast-forward to the present, and the landscape of the Star Wars fandom has transitioned profoundly. Jar Jar and the prequels found new champions as younger fans grew up and Star Wars gained nearly unprecedented global traction. The internet has played a significant role in fostering a more diverse and inclusive Star Wars community, challenging the old guard attempting to gatekeep the franchise.
"Star Wars is evolving, but there are those who want to hold onto the past. They don't see the change coming," Best explained to the Times. "It's a cultural phenomenon, and there are few Black voices in Star Wars, so I feel a sense of responsibility to keep my voice heard." Best has stood up for other actors maligned by the fandom, including Kelly Marie Tran, who endured hate for her performances as Rose Tico in The Last Jedi. He called the backlash "completely unwarranted."
This year marks The Phantom Menace's 25th anniversary, and with it comes a lucrative array of merchandise from Disney and brands such as RSVLTS, eagerly sought by fans across generations. Jar Jar features prominently in the new wave of collectibles. Best acknowledges his character's misunderstood nature while also conceding that he's found peace with his place within the Star Wars universe: "He's misunderstood, but Jar Jar's heart is pure."
Best's journey in the Star Wars galaxy didn't end with Jar Jar. He played warrior teacher Kelleran Beq on Jedi Temple Challenge and had an appearance in The Mandalorian. In this role, he played a crucial part in one of Star Wars' most legendary moments – saving Grogu from Anakin’s chilling aggression during Order 66. Best summarized this emotional experience, "It felt like coming home."
Looking ahead, fans can expect the latest updates on Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, DC's future cinematic and television ventures, and news about the next chapter in Doctor Who. Stay tuned for updates on Best's upcoming performance at the Herbst Theatre.
- Ahmed Best, despite being bullied by a toxic Star Wars fanbase over his portrayal of Jar Jar Binks, has found peace with his character's place in the Star Wars universe and acknowledges Jar Jar's misunderstood nature.
- The landscape of the Star Wars fandom has transitioned, challenging the old guard attempting to gatekeep the franchise, thanks to new generations of fans and the internet's role in fostering a more diverse and inclusive community.
- In the present day, Star Wars merchandise, such as products from Disney and RSVLTS, continues to attract fans across generations, with Jar Jar Binks prominently featured in the latest collectibles.
- Looking forward, Ahmed Best is set to perform at the Herbst Theatre, while fans can also anticipate updates on the future of Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, DC, and Doctor Who.
