This week’s episode of The Mandalorian finally revealed how Grogu survived the purge at the Jedi Temple after Order 66 was activated in Revenge of the Sith. And to the surprise of many fans, Grogu’s savior was Jedi Master Kelleran Beq, a role that marked a Star Wars comeback for Ahmed Best, the actor who portrayed Jar Jar Binks in the prequel trilogy. Best originated the role of Kelleran Beq while hosting the kids game show, Star Wars: Jedi Temple Challenge. However, this was the character’s first in-canon appearance.
While speaking with StarWars.com, Best admitted that he wasn’t initially sure about revisiting the Star Wars universe.
“Honestly, I had to think about it,” said Best. “I’ve been in the Star Wars world for such a long time and my story is such a rollercoaster ride of emotions. So coming back to Star Wars wasn’t an easy decision for me. It wasn’t something I could have immediately said yes to. I did have to marinate over it for a bit.”
“I was still nervous,” added Best. “But it was really Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni, and being with them, that made me want to come back.”
RELATED: Emily Swallow on The Armorer’s Motivations
Best also shared the moment that he really felt the impact of his comeback to Star Wars.
“As soon as I put the robes on for my first costume test, and I walked on to get approval from Jon and Dave, and they handed me a lightsaber, I was like, ‘Oh, I’m in this,’” recalled Best. “And boom, Kelleran Beq came alive.”
“The lightsaber of it all was really exciting for me,” continued Best. “I’ve always, always, always wanted to do a lightsaber fight. And even in this one, it’s just like, one tenth of one percent of what I can do. But I was like, ‘Let me get it out there!’”
While Best didn’t say whether he will reappear on The Mandalorian, he is holding out hope that he will return again.
“There is so much more that I want to do that this universe is perfect for, that I don’t want this to be the end of legacy,” said Best. “I don’t want this to be the end of the story. I want this to be the beginning, and a new beginning. Especially through Kelleran Beq.”
The Mandalorian season 3 will continue this Wednesday, March 29, on Disney+.
What did you think about Best’s turn as Kelleran Beq? Let us know in the comment section below!
Recommended Reading: The Art of Star Wars: The Mandalorian (Season Two)
We are also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate advertising program also provides a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
