Oscar Isaac, currently gaining attention for his role in Guillermo del Toro’s film Frankenstein, has expressed openness to reprising his role in the Star Wars series, but with a significant condition. Speaking shortly after Disney faced criticism over an incident involving late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, Isaac emphasized that Disney must protect free speech and resist political pressures before he would consider a return to the franchise.
Isaac’s role as Poe Dameron in the Star Wars sequel trilogy made him a fan favorite, but his latest comments reveal his concerns about the intersection of corporate decisions and creative freedom under the current Disney leadership. The actor’s remarks followed a controversy where Disney nearly dismissed Kimmel after government figures threatened broadcasters over critical jokes about President Trump, raising alarms about censorship and freedom of expression within the entertainment industry.
Open to Returning, But Only If Disney Resists Political Pressure
In an interview with GQ Magazine, conducted just two days after the controversy surrounding Jimmy Kimmel, Isaac openly linked his potential future with Star Wars to Disney’s stance on free speech. He stated,
“Yeah. I mean, I’d be open to it, although right now I’m not so open to working with Disney. But if they can kinda figure it out and, you know, not succumb to fascism, that would be great…if that happens, then yeah, I’d be open to having a conversation about a galaxy far away. Or any number of other things,”
Oscar Isaac, Actor
This statement signals a markedly more receptive attitude toward reconnecting with the iconic franchise than previous comments, where Isaac appeared more hesitant. His use of the phrase “not succumb to fascism” directly ties his concerns to the political pressures Disney faces, particularly the government’s indirect influence through threats against media companies.
Potential for More Star Wars Projects with Sequel Trilogy Cast
Isaac’s openness fits into a broader conversation about the possibility of several sequel trilogy actors returning for new Star Wars projects. Daisy Ridley remains officially involved with Star Wars: New Jedi Order, continuing her role as Rey Skywalker. Adam Driver was nearly set to portray Ben Solo again in The Hunt For Ben Solo, a project from Steven Soderbergh and Scott Z. Burns that Disney ultimately canceled despite previous approval. John Boyega has also expressed willingness to revisit his character Finn after talks with Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy.
This context underscores the industry’s ongoing interest in reviving the popular characters while hints of behind-the-scenes struggles with creative direction and corporate governance persist. Isaac’s cautious stance may reflect wider concerns among actors about the balance between artistic integrity and commercial interests under Disney’s expansive media empire.
Current Success with ‘Frankenstein’ Adds to Isaac’s Profile
Besides considering a potential Star Wars return, Oscar Isaac is showcasing his dramatic range in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, now streaming exclusively on Netflix. The film features a dark, Gothic science fiction adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel, with Isaac portraying the morally complex Victor Frankenstein. The cast also includes Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, and Christoph Waltz, enhancing its prominence.
Isaac’s performance in this project has garnered attention for its depth and nuance, expanding his profile beyond blockbuster franchises to more serious and artistically challenging roles. This dual presence in both popular and prestige projects marks a significant period in his career.
The Importance of Free Speech in Entertainment Choices
Isaac’s linking of his willingness to work with Disney to the company’s response to government pressure underscores a growing debate about artistic freedom within large media corporations. The near-dismissal of Jimmy Kimmel after jokes about President Trump, prompted by FCC chair Brendan Carr’s implicit threats, brought the question of creative censorship into sharp focus.
Isaac’s remark that Disney should not “succumb to fascism” highlights the tension between creators wanting to freely express ideas and companies navigating political landscapes. His stance serves as a cautionary note about how these dynamics impact both individual artists and the content they bring to audiences.
Looking forward, Isaac’s conditional openness to returning to Star Wars may signal a broader demand among creatives for corporate policies that protect free expression. Whether Disney adjusts or maintains its current trajectory could influence not only Isaac’s choices but also the future of major franchises and their stars.
