The Unexpected and Overwhelming Beginnings
Daisy Ridley made her debut in the Star Wars sequel trilogy with 2015's The Force Awakens, portraying the character Rey, an orphan from Jakku who is drawn into the conflict. Her journey as a lead in one of the most iconic franchises in cinematic history began unexpectedly and with overwhelming pressure.
Rey (Daisy Ridley) surrounded by celebrating Rebels in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker
Reflecting on her initial experience, Ridley revealed the emotional turmoil she faced, describing it as 'something unexpected and very surprising.' The weight of leading such a massive project as one of her earliest roles left her feeling overwhelmed and questioning her abilities.
Following the release of the first film, Ridley's emotional response was raw and honest. She expressed feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, admitting that she had never seen herself in a leading role before. The pressure and scrutiny surrounding the film's reception took a toll on her, leading to a challenging period of self-reflection and criticism.
Navigating Criticism and Personal Growth
In the midst of her role as Rey, Daisy Ridley faced an overwhelming amount of criticism, much of which stemmed from the high expectations and attention surrounding the sequel trilogy. As Rey, she became the face of a new era in Star Wars, garnering both praise and backlash from fans and critics alike.
The challenges extended beyond the cinematic realm, as Ridley encountered nonsensical criticisms and bigoted arguments aimed at the diverse cast of the trilogy. The weight of these external pressures led her to step away from social media, seeking a reprieve from the negative environment and allowing herself space for personal growth.
However, with the upcoming New Jedi Order movie, there is hope for a fresh start and a more positive experience for Ridley. Freed from the burden of living up to legacy characters and the expectations of the original trilogy, Ridley's return as Rey brings the opportunity for personal growth and a chance to shine without the distractions of external scrutiny.
A Hopeful Return and Future Prospects
Despite the overwhelming challenges of her initial Star Wars journey, Daisy Ridley's return to the franchise signals a hopeful and promising future. Her appearance at Star Wars Celebration 2023 was met with warmth and enthusiasm, reflecting the positive impact Rey had on audiences and the anticipation for her continued story.
As the franchise prepares for a new era in the theaters, audiences eagerly await news about Rey's future in the New Jedi Order. With the potential for new fans and the opportunity to rebuild the Jedi Order through Rey's students, the stage is set for a rejuvenated and empowering journey for Ridley's character.
While the original trilogy remains available for streaming on Disney+, Ridley's upcoming feature Sometimes I Think About Dying adds another dimension to her diverse career, set to release on January 24. As the Star Wars legacy continues to evolve, Ridley's return brings hope for a positive and empowering chapter in the New Jedi Order era.
