Michael Rapaport Under Fire for Telling John Boyega That he Should be “Grateful” for Star Wars

Words by Andre Kettle

Actor John Boyega, known for his breakout role in the new Star Wars saga, spoke candidly about his experience with racism while recording and promoting the movie in a recent interview. No one asked him, but Michael Rapaport voiced his opinion.

In Boyega’s interview with British GQ, the actor tells us his experience with Star Wars franchise. He felt that the franchise heavily promoted his character just because he was Black and suppressed parts of his identity to portray his character,  which was eventually subsided. He also spoke about the co-stars of color that faced similar struggles.

Michael then felt the need to speak on the subject at hand. Taking to social media to publicly voice his concern, he first congratulated John before eventually telling him he should be grateful that he was in a Star Wars movie.

Boyega then responded back to Michael saying “Did you read the article? thanks for the additional name to my list though,” possibly referring to the list of people who have criticized John for speaking out about his experience.

Michael quickly followed up saying “Things don’t always work out the way YOU plan. Happens to ALL of Us. Again be grateful for all u done so far which is a lot more than TONS of great actors of all races who also had roles cut down & continue to.”

“:) no. Thanks though,” Boyega says.

Twitter then came to the defense of John, scolding Rapaport for putting his nose in business that he no reason to be in.

Do you feel like Michael Rapaport was justified or is he taking his cookout “invitation” a little too far?