Jar Jar Binks actor Ahmed Best thanks fans for Star Wars return

Did you enjoy this week’s episode of The Mandalorian? Poor Din Djarin, sat on the sidelines. His time is coming again, I’m sure, although it doesn’t look like we’re going to get a helmet-less Din scene this season seeing as we spent several episodes looking for the Living Waters of Mandalore.

Regardless, I’ve actually enjoyed spending time with some other characters, even if some fans are jokingly calling this season ‘The Andorlorian’. In the latest episode, ‘The Foundling’, we finally got to find out who saved Grogu during Order 66. It was Kelleran Beq - played by returning Jar Jar Binks actor Ahmed Best. Fans are thrilled for the actor and full of praise for his performance. Since the episode aired, Best has been overwhelmed by the fan response and has sent out a message of thanks.

Yet to catch up? Well, you shouldn’t be reading this. Take a look at the season three trailer below.

Taking to Instagram, Best wrote, “Gratitude! Good to be back. There is so much to say and share. It’s going to take a couple of days. But, for now, I’ll just say thank you to all that have held me up and made me better.” I think I can say on behalf of all Star Wars fans, we’re so happy to see the actor thriving in this franchise.

Personally, I’d love to see a Jar Jar Binks Disney+ series but back when the prequels were released, the character was heavily ridiculed - quickly becoming the most hated character in the franchise. Unfortunately, so much of this hate was targeted at Best. The actor’s mental health began to severely suffer. In fact, Best has previously said that he contemplated suicide, so it’s lovely to see him enjoying this latest role and his connection with fans.

Over on Twitter, fan N8Mess said, “I truly hope Ahmed Best feels more welcomed and loved by the Star Wars fandom than ever before. He deserves this and so much more,” while gonzofan07 said, “I just cannot believe we got to see Ahmed Best as a Jedi. Absolutely awesome. So happy for him.” You can say that again.