Ahmed Best Acknowledges Jar Jar Binks’ Return in LEGO Star Wars
Ahmed Best has expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the return of Jar Jar Binks in the LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy miniseries. Best, who first portrayed Jar Jar in The Phantom Menace in 1999, has seen the character become quite divisive among fans. This division led to various fan theories, including one suggesting Jar Jar was a secret Sith Lord—a theory brought to life when Best voiced Darth Jar Jar in Rebuild the Galaxy.
In a recent Instagram post, Best reflected on his 25-year journey with Jar Jar, celebrating his latest portrayal in Rebuild the Galaxy and hinting at future developments. The post featured Best holding a LEGO minifigure of Darth Jar Jar, complete with a double-sided red lightsaber. He shared, “Me and this guy have been through a lot together. I really love what we’ve been through, where we are and where we’re going.” Best also encouraged fans to watch Rebuild the Galaxy to witness Darth Jar Jar in his full glory.
The Implications of Jar Jar’s Return for Star Wars
More Than Just Storytelling
While Jar Jar’s return in Rebuild the Galaxy does not alter the official Star Wars canon—since LEGO Star Wars is considered non-canonical—the real impact lies in Ahmed Best’s evolving relationship with the Star Wars universe. Following The Phantom Menace, Best endured severe backlash due to the mixed reception of Jar Jar. However, perceptions began to shift as fans who grew up with the prequels matured, culminating in a standing ovation for Best at Star Wars Celebration 2019.
Best’s evolving journey with Star Wars is detailed in The Redemption of Jar Jar Binks podcast. His association with the franchise further improved when he portrayed Jedi Master Kelleran Beq, the host of the Star Wars: Jedi Temple Challenge, a non-canonical children’s game show. Best later reprised this role for a canonical debut in The Mandalorian Season 3, where flashbacks revealed Beq saved Grogu during Order 66. This portrayal, showing Best as a heroic figure known as “the Sabered Hand,” was widely celebrated and continues with his return as Darth Jar Jar.
What’s Next for Ahmed Best in Rebuild the Galaxy?
Potential Future Roles for Best
Best’s comment, “I really love what we’ve been through, where we are and where we’re going,” could suggest that Darth Jar Jar’s story may not be concluded. The ending of Rebuild the Galaxy hints at further adventures for Sig Greebling and other characters. Though Darth Jar Jar appears to be defeated when Jedi Bob uses the Force to topple a LEGO structure on him, the series’ extraordinary Force powers leave room for his return.
The creation of a new galaxy in future LEGO Star Wars seasons could rewrite past events, providing Best with opportunities to voice Darth Jar Jar, another iteration of Jar Jar, Kelleran Beq, or an entirely different character. Ultimately, it is heartening to see Best celebrated and playing a vital role in the franchise once more.
Source: Ahmed Best (Instagram)
LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy
- Animated
- Action
- Adventure
- Sci-Fi
In a galaxy far, far away, familiar heroes and villains return in LEGO form to embark on a thrilling adventure to restore balance to the universe. As the remnants of the Empire threaten the fragile peace, a group of courageous rebels, including iconic characters like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo, join forces with new allies to rebuild what was lost. Utilizing their wit, bravery, and the unique humor of the LEGO universe, they face off against formidable foes, uncover hidden secrets, and forge unexpected alliances.