Part 4/9:
From the outset, the series was framed as a female-focused show led by Leslie Hedlund, a figure with a notorious background and connections to activist circles. The showrunners and cast repeatedly emphasized their desire to reflect their own queer identities and push diversity, seemingly at the expense of traditional Star Wars lore and storytelling integrity.
Star Wars fans are frustrated because they perceive this focus on activism and representation as superficial, overshadowing the franchise's legendary storytelling that once defined it. The insistence that having a Black lead or a female protagonist is "groundbreaking" feels like a superficial marketing gimmick to many, especially considering the franchise's recent history of featuring diverse characters.