Jodie Turner-Smith reveals that she has “no regrets” about playing Mother Aniseya in the divisiveStar WarsDisney+ seriesThe Acolyte. The series has received harsh backlash from fans and critics despite topping the streaming charts. Even before its release, it was shrouded in hostile reception. Disney has decidednot to renewThe Acolytefor season 2.
Turner-Smith reflects on her experience starring in theStar Warsseries while promoting her new Paramount+ showThe Agencyin an interview withCollider. The star revealed that she “loved being in that universe” andshewouldn’t hesitate to returnifThe Acolytereceived another season. Turner-Smith further explainedit was her “dream project"and that wasn’t too affected by the outside issues. Check out what the actor said below:
Of course [I’d return]! First of all, I loved being in that universe, I had an incredible time doing that, and I loved it. No matter what, it’s fun, gratifying work. There’s a lot of other stuff that comes with it that has nothing to do with the work and the colors of the work just because it’s politics or whatever, but ultimately it was a dream project to be a part of. I would do it again. I would. I don’t have any regrets. If there was an opportunity to do more, I would be right there.
It’s Great To See That Star Wars Was A Good Experience For Turner-Smith
Not Everyone Has A Good Time With Star Wars
Turner-Smith’s undying passion for the influential franchisespeaks to the dream of everyStar Warsfan. Being part of the world where Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker exist can be a dream come true, but sadly, not every actor enjoyed their time onStar Wars. Someregret being involved inStar Warsin the first place. For example, Jake Lloyd, who played young Anakin Skywalker inStar Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace,received backlash from fans, which followed him throughout his childhood and was thought to be partially why he quit acting.
The Acolyte Ending Explained: The Shadow Of Darth Vader Descends In The High Republic Era
The Acolyte episode 8 wraps up season 1 of the High Republic show by casting the shadow of the dark side, and Darth Vader, over the Jedi Order.
It’s certainly a good thing to know that Turner-Smith wasn’t negatively affected byThe Acolyte’s controversy. It’s always a shame when nonsensical backlash ruins a creative’s experiences, and sinceStar Warswasa dream for Turner-Smith, it’s a relief it largely went well for her. Her positive experience also confirms thatshe’d jump back intoStar Warsif she was given the opportunity. While many may dislike the pacing and the overall story arcs in the series, casting isn’t one of the areas that received genuine criticism.
Turner-Smith’s Comments Sadly Don’t Mean The Acolyte Will Return
But She Could Still Have A Star Wars Future
The Acolyte’s cancelation might not have much to do with the backlash, but instead the high cost to produce another season. The eight episodes inThe Acolyteseason 1 cost around $180 million. Even though the series had a massive viewership, it still didn’t meet Disney’s expectations for a return, which means it’s very unlikely forThe Acolyteto receive another season.
On the other hand,it’s not impossible for Turner-Smith to return to theStar Warsuniversedespite the series' cancelation. Manyactors have played multipleStar Warscharacters. From live-action characters to voice-overs for animated shows, the franchise has cast some of the same actors multiple times. Additionally, Turner Smith’sAcolytecharacter could appear in another project someday if Lucasfilm chooses to continue its story somehow or create a prequel.
The Acolyte
Cast
The Acolyte is a television series set in the Star Wars universe at the end of the High Republic Era, where both the Jedi and the Galactic Empire were at the height of their influence. This sci-fi thriller sees a former Padawan reunite with her former Jedi Master as they investigate several crimes - all leading to darkness erupting from beneath the surface and preparing to bring about the end of the High Republic.
