Biggest Star Wars Controversies: Jar Jar Binks

Jar Jar: Biggest Star Wars Controversies
Image: Lucasfilm Ltd.

Unfortunately we could write an entire list about the biggest Star Wars controversies of the prequel trilogy. Notwithstanding, the biggest offender was the character of Jar Jar Binks. Lucas added the character for comic relief (that universally fell flat) and to appeal to new, younger viewers.  To this day Jar Jar Binks remains one of, if not the most, hated characters in all of Star Wars. George Lucas may say Jar Jar is his favorite, but such a claim screams of justification and outright trolling of fans with whom Lucas disagreed.

Kathleen Kennedy and Social Justice

Biggest Star Wars Controversies
Image: Lucasfilm Ltd.

Fast forward: Disney takes over Lucasfilm and Kathleen Kennedy becomes its president. The first of her biggest Star Wars controversies arises off camera. A vocal minority of “fans” decry Kennedy and what they perceive as her social justice campaign within the franchise. They site to Rey, calling her a Mary Sue and Kennedy’s effort to emasculate the franchise, for starters. Rightly or wrongly, this continues to be one of the biggest Star Wars controversies currently.

Kennedy Again – Solo: A Star Wars Story

Image: Lucasfilm Ltd.

First, let me say that I enjoyed Solo, and felt that it didn’t deserve the “poor” box office showing it received. The reason this makes the list of biggest Star Wars controversies is because of the behind-the-scenes issues with the film. It began with a poor choice of directors. Then there was the complete mismanagement of the film’s marketing and scheduling. Lastly, this was a film no one really wanted. Consequently, Solo sits centered at one of the biggest Star Wars controversies ever.

And lastly…

Biggest Star Wars Controversies: Rian Johnson and The Last Jedi

Rian Johnson Trilogy
Rian Johnson directing Carrie Fisher in The Last Jedi. (Image: Lucasfilm Ltd.)

At this point, this one really needs no explanation. The Last Jedi, and its director Rian Johnson, are swimming in controversy. Subverted expectations, bland and seemingly useless characters, and generally poor writing easily place this on the list of the biggest Star Wars controversies ever to affect the franchise. Is the biggest?  I suppose history will decide.

Are there others events you’d add to the list off biggest Star Wars controversies? Or do you disagree with any of these? Let us know in the comments!