Lee Jung-jae Makes History as First Asian Jedi in New “Star Wars” Series
Lee Jung-jae, a prominent South Korean actor known for his award-winning performances, is breaking barriers once again by taking on the role of a Jedi master in the highly acclaimed series “The Acolyte.” The show, which has received a 93-percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, premiered with two episodes on Disney+ last Wednesday.
In this groundbreaking Hollywood project, Lee Jung-jae becomes the first Asian actor to join the iconic “Star Wars” franchise as a revered member of the Jedi order. His character, Jedi Master Sol, leads audiences on a thrilling journey set in the High Republic era, approximately 100 years before “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace.”
“The Acolyte” follows Sol as he investigates a series of murders that lead him to confront his former Padawan protégé, Osha Aniseya. Played by Amandla Stenberg, Osha becomes a key suspect in the killings of two Jedi masters, including Sol himself, as the mystery unfolds.
During a press conference, Lee Jung-jae shared his approach to portraying Sol, emphasizing the character’s humanity and emotional depth. He also expressed a special connection to Liam Neeson’s character, Qui-Gon Jinn, hinting at a possible link between the two Jedi masters in the series.
The actor discussed the challenges of working in a Hollywood production, highlighting the importance of language and communication in his performance. Despite the linguistic differences, Lee Jung-jae received support from dialect coaches and English tutors to prepare for his role.
When asked about the significance of playing the first Asian Jedi, Lee Jung-jae spoke about the global diversity of the cast and the opportunity to represent Asian talent in the “Star Wars” universe. He emphasized his dedication to the character and the immersive experience of bringing Sol to life on screen.
As viewers embark on this new “Star Wars” adventure with “The Acolyte,” Lee Jung-jae encourages newcomers to enjoy the series as a standalone introduction to the beloved franchise. With its compelling storyline and intriguing characters, “The Acolyte” promises an engaging experience for audiences of all backgrounds.
