Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Star Wars: The Last Jedi director says it's time for a female or non-white director

Rian Johnson seemed enthusiastic at the idea of a woman or director of colour leading a future instalment of the popular film franchise

Roisin O'Connor
Thursday 16 May 2024 08:38 EDT
Comments
(AFP via Getty Images)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Rian Johnson gave an enthusiastic response after being asked whether a Star Wars episode might be given to a female or non-white director.

The Star Wars: The Last Jedi director was speaking at a press conference in London when he was asked about it, the BBC reports.

"Hell yes, it's time," he responded. "There are so many incredibly talented female directors, directors of colour out there, and so many that I would love to see play in this universe."

Every Star Wars film from George Lucas has been directed by a white man. But The Last Jedi and 2015's The Force Awakens were both praised for starring a female lead character and featuring a diverse main cast.

Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy has previously expressed a wish to find a female director for the franchise "when the time is right".

Star Wars: The Last Jedi has received largely positive reviews from critics. Read our review here.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in