“The Acolyte’s” addition as the latest live-action series in the “Star Wars” franchise on Disney+ marks a significant milestone in Asian representation within the universe first imagined by George Lucas. Korean actor Jungjae Lee, renowned globally for “Squid Game,” breaks new ground as the first Asian Jedi Master. The series also features Filipino Canadian heartthrob Manny Jacinto (“The Good Place”) as the Stranger, who delivers a nuanced, emotionally complex performance, challenging the stereotypical, one-dimensional roles typically given to Asian American actors.
While this casting is a significant leap forward for “Star Wars” representation, the road hasn’t been smooth. In 2018, Kelly Marie Tran, who portrayed Rose Tico in the “Star Wars” sequel trilogy, endured severe harassment from fans who directed racist and sexist comments at her online.
The actress later penned an op-in in the New York Times reflecting on her journey navigating the ups and downs of newfound publicity, writing, “And it was in this realization that I felt a different shame — not a shame for who I was, but a shame for the world I grew up in. And a shame for how that world treats anyone who is different.”
Tran went on to achieve further success, including voicing the titular character in Disney’s animated film “Raya and the Last Dragon” and becoming the first Asian woman on the cover of Vanity Fair. While Tran’s dedication and remarkable talent enabled her to rise above harassment and achieve success, the harassment she experienced underscores the ongoing need for progress within the “Star Wars” franchise.
Representation Paradox: Asian Portrayals in “Star Wars”
The absence of Asian actors in “Star Wars” is a paradox — especially in pre-2000s films — given the deep influence it received from Asian culture. For many viewers, these cultural references may be subtle, particularly those linked to ancient dynastic traditions.
The Jedi Order, for instance, mirrors the Samurai tradition with its emphasis on honor, discipline, and martial prowess. The Jedi’s quest for balance and peace resonates with the Samurai’s code of ethics and their role as guardians of justice.
Similarly, the Force parallels qi in Chinese philosophy. Qi represents a vital energy that connects and animates all things, much like the Force, which binds the galaxy together. This deep spiritual connection enriches the “Star Wars” narrative, linking it with the philosophical elements of Asian traditions.
Sherliza Moe, a content creator with Mongolian heritage, highlights that Padme’s attire closely resembles traditional Mongolian royal clothing. “Obviously, it is appropriation, but I gotta say, personally, I think it is downright thievery. They just went ahead and stole it and put a different label on it and then had the audacity to say how creative they were.”
“Star Wars” has been praised for its creativity and pioneering impact on science fiction cinema. However, despite its reputation for innovation, the series often draws heavily from existing cultures. While drawing inspiration from diverse sources is one thing, the portrayals of characters that seem to be caricatures of Asian people raise concerns about cultural sensitivity and representation.
“But They’re Just Aliens!”
When University of California Berkeley grad student Alynda Wheat questioned creator George Lucas about the criticism that Jar Jar Binks was a problematic stereotype of Caribbean people, he responded, “How, in any credible way, could you take an orange amphibian and say that this was a racial stereotype for African Americans?”
What would that mean for the Neimoidians, with their exaggerated accents, appearance, and mannerisms that seem to imitate Chinese merchants?
I spoke with one fan, an Asian American male in his 20s, who seemed to be unaware of the claims of cultural appropriation and racial stereotyping. In response to my question about what he noticed while viewing the series as a fan, he responded, “I can see the names and the outfits having Asian influence, but what else is controversial?”
Some might argue that this green humanoid species, the Neimoidians, is entirely fictional and shouldn’t be seen as a stereotype, but that’s too simplistic. It’s a convenient excuse to dismiss valid criticism of racist caricatures, especially when the depiction of extraterrestrial beings overshadows real people.
Looking Forward: The Path to Authentic Representation
Authentic representation means creating characters with depth and respect, reflecting the rich diversity of the world. The role of the fanbase is crucial in this journey. Fans have the power to influence media representation by supporting inclusive campaigns and celebrating diverse talent.
“Star Wars” is neither the first nor the last series to face criticism regarding issues of race. A film live-action adaptation of the Nickelodeon cartoon series “Avatar: The Last Airbender” aired in 2010. It faced significant backlash from longtime fans, who felt that the storyline was rushed and that the casting whitewashed characters originally inspired by Asian and Inuit cultures. The controversy was so widespread that up to 100 protesters demonstrated outside the ArcLight Hollywood Theater. Fourteen years later, Netflix released another live-action adaptation of the beloved animated series with a more culturally diverse and what some would say “accurate” casting.
The latest entry into the “Star Wars” universe, “The Acolyte,” signifies a promising advancement in addressing representation. Yet the quest for true inclusivity and equity within the “Star Wars” universe remains a continuous journey. Should fans rally in support of this change and production remain receptive, the path forward promises to be ever more illuminating.
Cover Credit: Jedi Master Sol (Lee Jung-jae) in “The Acolyte.” (Image credit: ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd.)
