Since 2019, Disney+ has fostered a new, live-action universe within the cultural and cinematic Star Wars franchise. Shows like The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and more have provided a deep expansion into the lore of the beloved faraway galaxy, exploring a unique perspective on a variety of new characters and stories of the original saga.
Now, fans can delve into the dark side of the Force in the new series The Acolyte. In 2020, the streamer and Lucasfilm announced that there would be a new addition to the Star Wars universe in development. Showrunner Leslye Headland, who co-created Netflix’s Russian Doll, pitched this series in 2019 and is the first woman to create a Star Wars series.
The Acolyte premiered its first two episodes on Disney+ on June 4, 2024. The remaining episodes will be released weekly. It stars Amanda Stenberg, Lee Jung-Jae, Manny Jacinto, Dafne Keen, Charlie Barnett, Jodie Turner-Smith, Rebecca Henderson, Dean-Charles Chapman, Joonas Suotamo, and Carrie-Anne Moss.
Set in the final days of the High Republic era, this series dives into the sinister powers and secrets of the galaxy’s past.
An investigation into a shocking crime spree pits a respected Jedi Master against a dangerous warrior from his past (Amandla Stenberg). As more clues emerge, they travel down a dark path where sinister forces reveal all is not what it seems…
Amandla Stenberg plays Osha Aniseya, a former Padawan who becomes entangled in a web of crimes and must unravel them with the help of her former Jedi Master, played by Lee Jung-Jae.
The show has received mixed reviews. Some viewers have expressed dissatisfaction with casting women of color, particularly Stenberg and her character, while others have criticized the series for not breaking new ground. It’s impossible to fully agree with the latter perspective given that 5 episodes remain in the series.
Filming this series has been an adjustment for more than just Amandla. Korean actor and Squid Game star Lee Jung-Jae revealed that he learned English to secure his role as a Jedi in this series.
Despite the critical and audience responses, there has been considerable praise. Hayden Christensen, known for his portrayal of Darth Vader, sent the young star a heartfelt message to express his excitement about her joining the franchise.
We sat down with Amandla to discuss her reaction to the surprise message and her experience handling the critics and the intense fanbase as a newcomer in this cultural phenomenon. You can stream new episodes of The Acolyte every Tuesday at 6pm PT/9pm EST only on Disney+.