Rian Johnson Unfazed by Toxic ‘Star Wars’ Fan Backlash
Rian Johnson, the acclaimed filmmaker, responded to claims that he was frightened by online backlash following his work on “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.” On social media platform X, he dismissed the assertion made by former Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy, stating simply, “Lol zero spooked, sorry.”
Background on Rian Johnson’s Star Wars Involvement
Johnson directed “The Last Jedi,” released in 2017, which polarized fans and received mixed reviews. Following this, he was set to develop a new Star Wars trilogy, but that initiative did not materialize. Instead, Johnson shifted his attention to the “Knives Out” franchise.
Kennedy’s Perspective on Johnson’s Departure
In her exit interview with Deadline, Kennedy explained why Johnson did not return to the franchise. While acknowledging that “Knives Out” consumed much of his time, she noted that Johnson was also apprehensive about the negative reactions from fans after “The Last Jedi.” She expressed, “I do believe he got spooked by the online negativity,” indicating that Johnson felt the pressure inherent in the franchise.
Johnson’s Response to the Trilogy Plans
In a conversation with Rolling Stone last summer, Johnson clarified that the planned trilogy remained largely conceptual. He indicated that real progress on the Star Wars project never occurred. “Nothing really happened with it,” he said. Johnson elaborated that while discussions with Kennedy were fruitful, his focus shifted completely when “Knives Out” came into the picture.
Future Opportunities in the Star Wars Universe
Though Johnson is currently concentrating on his own projects, he remains open to the idea of revisiting the Star Wars universe in the future. He stated, “If, down the line, there’s an opportunity to do it, or do something else in ‘Star Wars,’ I would be thrilled.”
- Film: The Last Jedi
- Release Year: 2017
- Director: Rian Johnson
- Former Lucasfilm Boss: Kathleen Kennedy
- Current Focus: Knives Out franchise
