In an unexpected appearance that no one saw coming, Jar Jar Binks actor Ahmed Best returned to the “Star Wars” universe in the most recent episode of “The Mandalorian”. But this time, instead of playing the controversial gungan, Best made his return as a Jedi named Kelleran Beq.
In the chapter titled “The Child”, Best appears briefly in a flashback to Order 66, when the clone troopers betrayed the Jedi and nearly wiped them all out. Best’s character, Kelleran, saves a young Grogu from a group of clone troopers. Kelleran saves the little boy and defeats them with his two lightsabers, allowing Grogu to escape with him on a ship. The episode ends leaving open the possibility that Best will appear again in the series.
But this is not the first time Best has played Kelleran. The actor created the character for the web series “Star Wars: Jedi Temple Challenge”, a game show for children where participants completed obstacle courses to become Jedi knights.
Best is perhaps best known for his role as Jar Jar in the “Star Wars” prequel films, a character that has been the subject of controversy and criticism from fans for his accent and comedic personality.
But Best has spoken openly about how the negative reaction to his character almost drove him to the brink of suicide. In a 2019 interview, the actor talked about how the criticism affected him deeply and left him in a dark place. But now, his triumphant return as a Jedi in “The Mandalorian” seems to be an important step toward redemption and a chance to reclaim his career in the “Star Wars” universe.
What else will the series bring us in future episodes? Will we see more of Kelleran Beq? Only time will tell.
