Star Wars actor slams fans as “white elitists” in unhinged racial tirade

Actor John Boyega, best known for his role in 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens', has launched a racially charged attack on the franchise’s fanbase, describing it as “white, elite space” and accusing longtime fans of being uncomfortable with Black actors.

In comments made to Apple TV+’s documentary 'Number One on the Call Sheet', Boyega claimed that Star Wars has historically been too white and that his presence — was met with resistance by fans. “Star Wars always had the vibe of being in the most whitest, elite space,” he declared.

He dismissed the franchise’s inclusion of characters like Lando Calrissian and Mace Windu — both beloved by fans — as token gestures, comparing them to “chocolate chips scattered in cookie dough.”

Boyega went further, accusing Hollywood of only allowing Black actors to play supporting roles, saying that when Black characters become heroes, audiences accuse the industry of “pandering.”

But what many saw as a rise in diversity, Boyega framed as systemic racism — taking a swipe at the very fans who helped make him a household name. Rather than celebrating his high-profile role, Boyega claims Disney sidelined him — a claim critics say ignores the reality of ensemble storytelling and shifting narratives.

What’s most glaring about Boyega’s statements is not his critique of Hollywood casting — a fair topic for debate — but the overt racial generalizations. Painting Star Wars and its global, multicultural fanbase as a bastion of “white elitism” is not only ungrateful, but inflammatory.

For many, his comments reflect a disturbing trend: one where race-based grievances are wielded as weapons to vilify entire groups — in this case, white audiences — under the guise of “representation.”