Oscar Isaac, known for his roles in Star Wars and Marvel productions, recently expressed hesitancy about working with Disney again. The actor, famous for portraying Poe Dameron in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, revealed his concerns during an interview in September, linking his stance to the controversy around Disney-owned ABC’s suspension of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.
Isaac’s comments highlight his demand that Disney avoid what he described as succumbing to fascism before he would consider revisiting the Star Wars universe. This politically charged position adds complexity to his previously stated openness to returning as Poe Dameron in future projects, tying his potential involvement to the company’s handling of sociopolitical issues.
Disney’s Jimmy Kimmel Suspension Sparks Isaac’s Political Reservations
The catalyst for Oscar Isaac’s unease with Disney was ABC’s decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel Live! indefinitely after Kimmel’s monologue referenced the tragic shooting death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk and reactions from various political groups. This move spurred an intense public and industry backlash, resulting in Kimmel’s reinstatement about four days later.
Isaac spoke candidly with GQ during this period, stating,
“Yeah. I mean, I’d be open to it, although right now I’m not so open to working with Disney,”
Isaac told GQ.
“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.”
The latter comment likely refers to his role as Marc Spector/Moon Knight in the Disney+ Marvel series, Moon Knight.
Isaac’s Mixed History With Disney and Star Wars
Isaac’s relationship with Disney has been marked by both enthusiasm and reservations. Although he has embraced key roles within Disney’s franchises, he has also expressed a desire to pursue smaller, more personal film projects following the demanding scale of the Star Wars productions. His remarks have occasionally been interpreted as critical, a sentiment he acknowledged in hindsight.
At a 2020 Deadline panel promoting Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Isaac explained his preference for intimate filmmaking:
“What I set out to do was to make handmade movies, and to work with people that inspire me,”
he said. Answering whether he would revisit Star Wars, he added with a hint of humor,
“Probably, but who knows. If I need another house or something.”
Reflecting on that statement during his GQ interview, Isaac admitted it was ill-advised:
“Yeah. That was a real likable quote. Jesus Christ,”
he said.
“Y’know, people ask you things, you say stuff, you don’t really think about it that much. I said a slightly dickish thing.”
The Broader Implications of Isaac’s Disney Position
Oscar Isaac’s firm stance highlights ongoing tensions between artists and the political and corporate environments they navigate. His demand that Disney “not succumb to fascism” before considering future collaborations demonstrates how sociopolitical factors increasingly shape actors’ career decisions and public personas.
With Isaac controlling access to a key character like Poe Dameron, his position could influence how Disney approaches creative freedom and political issues within their franchises. His comments also bring attention to the complexity faced by performers balancing large studio projects with personal values and public expectation.
As Disney continues to develop its Star Wars and Marvel properties, Isaac’s conditions introduce an element of uncertainty regarding his future participation. Fans and the industry alike will be watching to see if the company addresses these concerns or if Isaac chooses to prioritize other projects outside the Disney umbrella.
