Jar Jar Binks’ Triumphant Return to Star Wars Is Inevitable

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The franchise boasts an array of captivating and vibrant personalities that have become widely recognized symbols. In recent years, Lucasfilm has not only created fresh characters but also resurrected some from the original timeline. Notable figures like Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher returned in the sequel trilogy, while Ewan McGregor and Hayden Christensen have reprised their roles from the prequels in recent productions. At present, it’s challenging to imagine any characters remaining from George Lucas’ era that could be revived, save for one significant figure.

In the initial release of “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace“, Jar Jar Binks made his appearance and was generally perceived as a notable character. Yet, opinions have shifted significantly over time, leaving many surprised that Lucasfilm’s recent projects have not incorporated this clumsy Gungan in some fashion. A return of Jar Jar could open up numerous narrative possibilities for the franchise, with implications extending beyond the story itself. Given these factors, it is crucial for Lucasfilm to carefully consider a suitable plotline and introduce him sooner rather than later.

Prequels Have Become More Prevalent in Recent Star Wars

FilmRelease dateDirectorScreenwriter(s)Story by
Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace May 19, 1999George Lucas
Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the ClonesMay 16, 2002George LucasGeorge Lucas and Jonathan HalesGeorge Lucas
Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the SithMay 19, 2005George Lucas

Initial reactions to the “Star Wars” prequels upon release were generally unfavorable, with viewers expressing disappointment over Lucas’s direction of the story, excessive use of CGI, and dialogue that fell short of expectations. However, over time, particularly due to the impact of internet meme culture, there has been a growing appreciation for these films. This renewed interest has led to greater focus on elements from the “Star Wars” prequels by Lucasfilm, such as the revival of the “Obi-Wan Kenobi” series following “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith,” featuring McGregor and Christensen once again. Additionally, the popular “Clone Wars” animated series finally received a satisfying conclusion and has played a role in many fans reconsidering their initial views on the prequel trilogy.

In 2024, George Lucas commented on the feedback regarding 3P0, stating that everyone shared similar sentiments, finding him annoying and suggesting he be removed from the story. During the filming of the third installment, however, it was the Ewoks who drew criticism: “They’re just cute teddy bears,” some viewers said. “This is a children’s movie; we don’t want to watch a kids’ flick.” Lucas responded, “It is a children’s movie. It always has been a children’s movie.

Lately, there has been increasing evidence of fondness for the prequels at the box office, as seen with films like Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace and others, on their anniversary celebrations. Although the prequel trilogy doesn’t receive the same level of praise from critics as the original trilogy, it has still played a significant role in introducing new fans to the Star Wars universe and fostering nostalgia. Consequently, Lucasfilm has been including more elements from the prequels into their recent projects.

Now that time has passed and feelings towards the films have evolved, there is growing interest among fans for a potential return of Jar Jar Binks. Reintroducing Jar Jar wouldn’t merely be noteworthy; it also wouldn’t risk dividing the fan base as much as it might have in previous years.

A 2017 Star Wars Novel Revealed Jar Jar’s Fate

  • Jar Jar Binks became a senator after The Phantom Menace and granted Chancellor Palpatine emergency powers in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones.
  • Jar Jar did have a small role in the 2017 novel, Star Wars: Aftermath – Empire’s End, by Chuck Wendig.

Aftermath: Empire’s End.

The story unfolds in the time period following “Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi,” and it is disclosed that the Gungans expelled Jar Jar, causing him to find a new home on Naboo. In the bustling city center of Theed, the capital of Naboo, Jar Jar transformed into a street entertainer. Consequently, from this narrative, it’s apparent that Jar Jar didn’t participate in the Rebel Alliance or perish under the Empire’s rule. This opens up the possibility for future Star Wars tales to incorporate Jar Jar, and given that several prequel aspects are already present in “The Mandalorian” and “Ahsoka,” one of these could provide an opportunity for him to make amends.

Ahmed Best Has Become a Key Part of Star Wars Again

  • Ahmed Best has also played Jedi Master Kelleran Beq in the Star Wars franchise.
  • Beq first appeared in Jedi Temple Challenge before saving Grogu in The Mandalorian season three flashback.

Though Jar Jar Binks last graced the silver screen in 2005, the man who brought him to life, Ahmed Best, has remained active within the Star Wars universe. Known for his portrayal of the groundbreaking character in the prequels, Best reprised another role in Star Wars. In season three of The Mandalorian, Best made a shocking return as Jedi Master Kelleran Beq, who rescued Grogu at the Jedi Temple during Order 66. Originally crafted for the Star Wars competition series, Jedi Temple Challenge, Beq was not initially seen in the prequels. However, The Mandalorian afforded Best more prominence, as he also made a brief appearance in the background of the prequels as his human self.

Ahmed Best has expressed interest in returning to the Star Wars universe, specifically focusing more on the character Kelleran Beq. He also suggested an idea for a new series – a Star Wars martial arts show with a blend of action similar to John Wick but set within the realm of Jedi. However, he doesn’t rule out exploring Jar Jar Binks’ story again in the future as he feels it may not have been fully resolved yet, although that isn’t his primary focus at the moment.

It was particularly meaningful for the actor to rejoin Star Wars as he’s since shared that he found the criticism over Jar Jar difficult following The Phantom Menace. Now, however, the actor has been met with much more appreciation from the Star Wars community at conventions and online. Given his renewed status within the Star Wars community, it seems quite possible that a return to the role of Jar Jar could be on the horizon for Best.

One significant motif in the Star Wars saga is redemption, and introducing Jar Jar Binks more prominently could resonate with this theme, both in the narrative and reality. Currently, in the Star Wars canon, Jar Jar functions as a street performer following Return of the Jedi. Shows like Ahsoka or The Mandalorian offer an ideal platform to place Jar Jar during this era, possibly elevating him to a significant role within the New Republic. Since Jar Jar is an animated character, he could create an interesting dynamic with the serious Din Djarin on an exciting adventure. Furthermore, given the mixed reception towards Jar Jar in the past, a potential second season could offer another chance for his return and a compelling storyline.

Introducing Jar Jar into current Star Wars narratives would be a fitting tribute to George Lucas’ groundbreaking work in cinema. As one of the first performance-captured characters like Gollum, Jar Jar holds a special place in Star Wars history. Although unexpected appearances in Star Wars productions might initially seem jarring, in this instance, it could carry significant emotional weight for both on-screen and off-screen audiences.

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2025-05-05 07:18