In a recent panel at Fan Expo Chicago, The Acolyte star Manny Jacinto shared an optimistic perspective on the future of the polarizing Star Wars series, drawing parallels to the evolving reception of the Star Wars prequel trilogy. The Disney+ series, which was canceled after its debut season in 2024, faced significant scrutiny, earning a 19% Audience Score on Rotten Tomatoes—one of the lowest in the Star Wars franchise, falling below even the divisive The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker. Despite its cancellation and mixed critical reception, Jacinto expressed hope that The Acolyte could find renewed appreciation over time, much like the prequels did.
The Acolyte, set in the High Republic era roughly a century before The Phantom Menace, aimed to explore uncharted territory in the Star Wars universe. Created by showrunner Leslye Headland, the series introduced fresh characters and narratives, with Jacinto’s enigmatic Qimir emerging as a fan-favorite. However, the show’s momentum was halted by poor-to-mixed reviews, leading to Disney’s decision to end the series after eight episodes. While the cancellation marked a premature end, Jacinto’s recent comments suggest a belief in the show’s potential for a lasting legacy.
During the Fan Expo Chicago panel, hosted by ScreenRant’s Joe Deckelmeier, Jacinto reflected on the shifting perception of the Star Wars prequels (The Phantom Menace, Attack of the Clones, and Revenge of the Sith). He noted how the prequels, initially met with harsh criticism upon their release between 1999 and 2005, have since gained a devoted following, particularly among younger audiences who grew up with them. Jacinto, who plays the mysterious Qimir in The Acolyte, drew a comparison to his own series, expressing hope that it could experience a similar resurgence.
In a poignant moment, Jacinto shared his personal connection to the prequels, telling ScreenRant, “I grew up on the prequels as well, and you know, as a kid, you watch that, and you're just in awe of it. And then we grow up, and then now we have money...and we have more confidence as well, and we're able to voice our opinion. So I do hope that, you know, [The Acolyte] finds new life, or it continues to find the love...you know, being out here has been so much love, and I just hope it continues, and we'll see. Never say never.”
When asked about the possibility of reprising his role as Qimir, Jacinto remained optimistic, saying, “I mean, I hope not. I would love nothing more [than] to run it back.” His comments reflect a desire to see The Acolyte’s story continue, whether through a revival of the series or in another form within the Star Wars universe. The actor’s enthusiasm underscores the passion behind the project, which sought to expand the franchise’s mythology with a bold narrative set in a previously unexplored era.
The Star Wars franchise has long been a lightning rod for debate, with each new entry scrutinized by its passionate fanbase. The prequels, once derided for elements like Jar Jar Binks and wooden dialogue, have seen a remarkable shift in perception, driven by nostalgia and a new generation of fans. Jacinto’s remarks suggest that The Acolyte could follow a similar trajectory, particularly as younger viewers who connected with the series grow older and vocalize their support. The show’s exploration of the High Republic, coupled with standout performances like Jacinto’s, provides a foundation for potential rediscovery.
While The Acolyte’s cancellation has closed the door on immediate plans for continuation, Jacinto’s “never say never” stance leaves room for speculation. Star Wars has a history of revisiting characters and stories, as seen with projects like Obi-Wan Kenobi and Ahsoka. Whether Qimir’s journey could continue in a future series, film, or even a novel remains uncertain, but Jacinto’s hope resonates with fans who cherished the show’s unique contribution to the galaxy far, far away.
As Star Wars continues to evolve, The Acolyte stands as a bold, if divisive, chapter. Jacinto’s reflections highlight the enduring power of storytelling in the franchise and the potential for even its most controversial entries to find new life over time. For now, fans of The Acolyte can hold onto the possibility that, like the prequels, its legacy may grow stronger with the passage of time.
