While 'The Acolyte', in which Lee Jung-jae becomes the first Korean actor to enter the Star Wars universe, is raising expectations, the director announced that the fans of the series who discriminate against actors of color will not be considered as fans.

Leslye Headland, who planned, produced, and directed 'The Acolyte', recently mentioned the negative opinions of some Star Wars fans toward 'The Acolyte' in an interview with the New York Times, a leading American media outlet.

Lee Jung-jae appears as the 'Jedi Master' in 'The Acolyte', which will be released on Disney+ on June 5th, drawing attention from domestic and foreign fans.

However, some are voicing their dissatisfaction because the series features actors of various races. In addition to Lee Jung-jae, 'The Acolyte' features many actors of color, including Africans and Filipinos.

In response, Leslye Headland said, "As a Star Wars fan, I know how disappointing the past storytelling has been," and added, "I will not consider anyone who expresses bigotry, racism, or hatred as a fan."

Kathleen Kennedy, CEO of production company Lucas Film, said that Leslie Headland may have had some difficulties because she was a woman, adding, "Women coming into Star Wars production face more difficulties. Because the fan base is male-dominated, they are attacked in a personal way."

Meanwhile, 'The Acolyte' is a mystery action thriller that unveils the story of an unprecedented Jedi serial murder case taking place in an era called the golden age of the Jedi Knights protecting peace, and the story of a newly emerging dark force within the secrets and truths hidden behind it.

<Photo=Walt Disney Company Korea>

<Translated by=Jisu Kim (Dispatch)>