John Boyega, known for his role as Finn in the Star Wars saga, has become an outspoken voice on issues of race and representation in Hollywood. In a candid interview, Boyega reflects on his journey through the Star Wars franchise and the broader challenges faced by black actors in the film industry. His perspective offers a critical look at the industry’s progress and the persistent systemic issues that need addressing.
Boyega’s reflections begin with a personal anecdote about his hair, which he describes as “a very powerful thing” for black men, carrying cultural significance. This personal detail sets the stage for a larger discussion about control and identity within an industry that often imposes white standards. He recalls feeling stifled by the demands of his schedule and the attempts to control his appearance as he entered the whirlwind of big-budget moviemaking. This period of questioning led him to consider whether there was space for someone like him to exist authentically in an industry historically built on white norms.
This introspection extended to his early experiences during the press tour for Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Boyega recounts instances with stylists and hairdressers who lacked experience with black hair and aesthetics, yet pretended otherwise. He realized he could no longer passively accept these situations, a shift from his initial gratitude and willingness to “grin and bear it.” He quotes his father’s advice: “Don’t overpay with respect,” highlighting the importance of self-worth and not underselling oneself, even when showing deference.
Addressing his Star Wars journey directly, Boyega’s interview marks his most substantial commentary since the conclusion of the franchise with The Rise of Skywalker. He acknowledges the difficulty in navigating such massive projects, admitting that not everything will be to one’s liking. However, his critique sharpens when he discusses Disney’s approach to black characters. Boyega directly states, “do not bring out a black character, market them to be much more important in the franchise than they are and then have them pushed to the side. It’s not good. I’ll say it straight up.”
He clarifies that this criticism is aimed at his own character, Finn, who, despite wielding a lightsaber in The Force Awakens, was relegated to a less central role in subsequent films. Boyega extends this observation to other actors of color in the Star Wars cast, including Naomi Ackie, Kelly Marie Tran, and even Oscar Isaac, feeling they experienced similar marginalization. While anticipating some might dismiss his views, he points to The Last Jedi‘s character hierarchy as particularly telling.
In a frank comparison, Boyega highlights the nuanced development afforded to the characters of Daisy Ridley (Rey) and Adam Driver (Kylo Ren), stating, “you guys knew what to do with Daisy Ridley, you knew what to do with Adam Driver. You knew what to do with these other people, but when it came to Kelly Marie Tran, when it came to John Boyega, you know f*** all.” He contrasts this with the expected public relations narrative of actors expressing only positive experiences, rejecting that notion unless the experience is genuinely positive. He emphasizes that his observations are not secrets, acknowledging that Ridley and Driver themselves are aware of these dynamics.
Boyega broadens his critique to the systemic mistreatment of black characters in blockbuster films, noting their frequent portrayal as fearful and anxious. He also touches on JJ Abrams’ return to direct The Rise of Skywalker, defending Abrams and suggesting he was brought back to “save your s**.” While recognizing Star Wars* as an “amazing opportunity” and a career stepping stone, Boyega’s primary aim is to articulate the frustrations of navigating a system that feels inherently unfair. He seeks to convey the experience of having a childhood dream tarnished by the harsh realities of racial dynamics within the entertainment industry. His words are not simply bitterness, but a crucial insight into the challenges of achieving genuine representation and equality in Hollywood.
