Riz Ahmed reveals why he cancelled Star Wars Celebration appearance

Photo credit: Getty Images
Photo credit: Getty Images

From Digital Spy

Back in April, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story actor Riz Ahmed had to cancel an appearance at Star Wars Celebration due to circumstances beyond his control, and now he has revealed what those circumstances sadly were.

Speaking at a CAA Amplify Summit, which focuses on diversity and inclusivity within sports, tech, politics and entertainment (via The Hollywood Reporter), Riz – who played Bodhi Rook in Rogue One – talked about the Islamaphobia he still faces to this day.

As he revealed, the Department of Homeland Security stopped him from boarding the plane, something he explained has been happening to him for over 15 years.

Photo credit: Lucasfilm
Photo credit: Lucasfilm

Related: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story originally had a happy ending – and a wedding

"Some of these obstacles are systemic and we can't really face them alone, we need your help," Riz told the audience.

"I'm basically here to ask for your help, because it's really scary to be a Muslim right now, super scary. I've often wondered, is this going to be the year when they round us up, if this is going to be the year they put Trump's registry into action."

Photo credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic
Photo credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

The Venom actor also said that he is used to changing the way he speaks, dresses or walks in certain places, and that's something he doesn't want to have to do anymore.

"We all know how to navigate terrain that isn't of our own making. That's how I can do it, but that's not why I do what I do," Riz added.

"The why is because I don't want to have to code-switch anymore."

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker will be released on Thursday, December 19 in the UK and Friday, December 20 in the US.


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