Oscar Isaac's Bold Condition for a Star Wars Return: "Not Succumb to Fascism"

Imagine a galaxy far, far away where a beloved rebel pilot refuses to fly for the Empire — or, in this case, for Disney — unless they change their ways. That's essentially the ultimatum Oscar Isaac, our very own Poe Dameron, has presented to the entertainment giant, tying his potential return to Star Wars directly to Disney's recent corporate decisions and its stance against what he calls "fascism."

TL;DR: The Latest on Oscar Isaac and Disney

• Oscar Isaac stated he'd return to Star Wars only if Disney doesn't "succumb to fascism," expressing current reluctance to work with the company.
• These comments emerged from a GQ interview conducted shortly after Disney controversially suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! in September 2025.
• The actor's stance marks a significant shift from his earlier, more flippant remarks about returning to the franchise, now reflecting a principled stand.

A Galaxy of Concerns: Why Oscar Isaac Is Holding Back

Oscar Isaac, currently buzzing from his role in Guillermo del Toro’s latest passion project, "Frankenstein" (where he plays the titular anatomist alongside Jacob Elordi and Christoph Waltz), recently sat down for a GQ interview. While the conversation covered a range of topics, one particular exchange about his future with Disney and the Star Wars franchise sent ripples through Hollywood.

When asked about reprising his role as the dashing X-wing pilot Poe Dameron, Isaac didn't hold back. He expressed an openness to returning but quickly added a hefty caveat: "I’d be open to [returning to ‘Star Wars’], although right now I’m not so open to working with Disney. But if they can kinda figure it out and, you know, not succumb to fascism, that would be great." This isn't just a casual remark; it's a direct challenge to the House of Mouse.

"I’d be open to [returning to ‘Star Wars’], although right now I’m not so open to working with Disney. But if they can kinda figure it out and, you know, not succumb to fascism, that would be great… if that happens, then yeah, I’d be open to having a conversation about a galaxy far away. Or any number of other things."

— Oscar Isaac, in a GQ interview published November 10, 2025.

Unpacking the Kimmel Controversy: The Event That Sparked a Galactic Standoff

To understand Isaac's strong words, we need to rewind a bit to September 2025. Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, whose show "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" airs on Disney-owned ABC, delivered a monologue criticizing what he termed the "MAGA gang" for their narrative surrounding the alleged murderer of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk. Kimmel quipped that they were "desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them, and doing everything they can to score political points from it."

The fallout was swift and severe. Two days later, FCC chair Brendan Carr publicly demanded that ABC affiliates preempt "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" under threat of losing their broadcasting licenses. Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group quickly complied. Shortly after, Walt Disney Corporation CEO Bob Iger suspended "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" indefinitely. Source: [Los Angeles Times, Oscar Isaac would return to ‘Star Wars’ if Disney does ‘not succumb to fascism’, Nov. 11, 2025]

This "indefinite" suspension ended up lasting only six days, with Kimmel returning to air on September 23, 2025. However, the initial decision triggered a massive public outcry and condemnation from numerous celebrities and creatives who work with Disney. Stars like Pedro Pascal, Mark Ruffalo, Olivia Rodrigo, and even Luke Skywalker himself, Mark Hamill, publicly voiced their support for Kimmel and criticized Disney's move. Tatiana Maslany, known as She-Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, even urged fans to cancel their Disney+ subscriptions. Source: [IGN, Speaking Amid Jimmy Kimmel's Suspension, Oscar Isaac Said He'd Only Return to Star Wars if Disney Did 'Not Succumb to Fascism', Nov. 10, 2025]

The backlash wasn't just celebrity endorsements; reports indicated that Disney+ and Hulu cancellation rates doubled during Kimmel’s suspension. When Kimmel finally returned, he delivered an emotional monologue and subsequently saw some of the biggest ratings of his late-night career. FCC Chair Carr, meanwhile, is set to testify in December before the Senate Commerce Committee about whether he exerted undue pressure on broadcasters. Even Senator Ted Cruz, the committee chair, called Carr’s comments "dangerous as hell."

Timing Is Everything: Isaac's Evolving Perspective on a Star Wars Comeback

Interestingly, the GQ interview with Isaac was conducted just days after Kimmel's suspension on September 17, 2025, but before his return to air on September 23. This crucial timing shows Isaac's comments reflect his immediate reaction to Disney's controversial move, without the benefit of knowing Kimmel would be back on screen so soon. Source: [Variety, Oscar Isaac Was ‘Not So Open to Working With Disney’ After Jimmy Kimmel Suspension, Nov 10, 2025]

Isaac's current stance is a marked departure from his previous sentiments about revisiting the Star Wars galaxy. Back in a 2020 interview with Deadline, following the release of "The Rise of Skywalker," he voiced hesitation, saying Star Wars films were "not really what I set out to do." He famously added that he'd "probably" not return, "but who knows. If I need another house or something."

He openly admitted in the recent GQ interview that his 2020 quote was "a real likable quote. Jesus Christ... I said a slightly dickish thing." This self-awareness highlights a shift. In late August 2025, before the Kimmel controversy, Isaac told Variety he was "more than open" to returning if "there was something good to do with that." His latest comments, however, reveal a deeply felt political and ethical line drawn in the sand, directly linked to Disney's perceived actions.

Broader Corporate Currents: Disney's Challenging Waters

The Kimmel saga isn't an isolated incident, but rather unfolds against a backdrop of wider challenges for Disney. The company has faced ongoing scrutiny over its creative direction for major franchises like Star Wars since acquiring Lucasfilm in 2012. Fans have debated the reception of the sequel trilogy, and various announced projects—like Rian Johnson's proposed trilogy or plans involving Taika Waititi—have stalled or quietly vanished.

For example, a proposed Adam Driver return in "The Hunt for Ben Solo" was reportedly halted by Disney leadership, leading to fan protests, including a plane banner over their Burbank studios. This captures a broader frustration with Disney’s stewardship of its major properties. While not directly tied to Isaac's statement, these instances contribute to a perception of a company navigating complex cultural and creative landscapes, sometimes to the chagrin of its stars and fans.

Considering the Nuances of Corporate Principles and Public Statements

One might argue that Disney ultimately "figured it out" by reinstating Jimmy Kimmel, suggesting their initial decision was a temporary misstep rather than a capitulation to fascism. After all, the suspension lasted only six days, and Kimmel returned to higher ratings. This rapid reversal could be seen as Disney listening to its talent and audience, rather than cementing a problematic stance. However, the initial move, the FCC's involvement, and the subsequent widespread concern demonstrate the deep unease sparked by the situation.

Another point to consider is Isaac's own admission about his past "dickish" comment. This might lead some to question the seriousness or longevity of his current ultimatum, suggesting actors can sometimes speak impulsively. Yet, the stark contrast between his previous flippancy and his current, highly specific, and politically charged statement indicates a profound shift. His current comments feel less like an off-the-cuff remark and more like a carefully considered, principled stand on corporate ethics.

Example: Imagine a lifelong Star Wars fan, Sarah, in her living room, debating whether to keep her Disney+ subscription after the Kimmel news broke. She loves the shows but felt a knot in her stomach watching the reports unfold, wondering if her money was supporting principles she didn't agree with. Oscar Isaac's words resonated deeply, articulating the very concerns she had about corporate influence and artistic freedom. His public stance, she thought, made her feel less alone in her unease, even if she ultimately kept her subscription for The Mandalorian.

What This Means for Talent, Studios, and the Future of Star Wars

Oscar Isaac's comments are more than just a celebrity soundbite; they're a barometer for the evolving relationship between major studios and their top talent. This kind of public declaration could have several ripple effects.

First, it empowers other actors and creatives to consider the ethical stances of the corporations they work with, potentially making "morality clauses" in contracts a two-way street. Second, it could force studios like Disney to be more transparent and consistent in their public and political dealings to attract and retain A-list stars for their massive franchises. Finally, for fans, it adds another layer to the already complex narrative of Star Wars, intertwining its fantastical battles with very real-world principles.

With confirmed Star Wars projects like Daisy Ridley returning as Rey in a New Jedi Order movie, "The Mandalorian & Grogu" hitting the big screen on May 22, 2026, and "Star Wars: Starfighter" (reportedly with Ryan Gosling) set for May 28, 2027, the franchise isn't slowing down. The question remains: will Disney heed Isaac's call and ensure its corporate actions align with the rebel spirit he brought to Poe Dameron?

Frequently Asked Questions About Oscar Isaac's Star Wars Future

• Will Oscar Isaac return as Poe Dameron in future Star Wars films?

  Oscar Isaac has stated he is "open to it" but currently "not so open to working with Disney" unless they "can kinda figure it out and, you know, not succumb to fascism." His return is conditional on Disney's corporate actions.

• What was the Jimmy Kimmel Live! controversy that influenced Isaac's statement?

  In September 2025, Disney-owned ABC temporarily suspended "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" after Kimmel made critical remarks about the "MAGA gang" regarding the death of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk. The suspension lasted six days following public outcry and celebrity support for Kimmel.

• When was Oscar Isaac's critical interview with GQ published?

  The GQ interview where Isaac made these comments was published on November 10, 2025. It was conducted days after Kimmel's suspension but before his return to the air, reflecting Isaac's immediate reaction to the situation.

• What other major Star Wars projects are currently confirmed?

  Confirmed projects include a New Jedi Order movie starring Daisy Ridley as Rey, "The Mandalorian & Grogu" movie set for May 22, 2026, and "Star Wars: Starfighter" (reportedly starring Ryan Gosling) on May 28, 2027.

Sources

• Los Angeles Times, "Oscar Isaac would return to ‘Star Wars’ if Disney does ‘not succumb to fascism’", Nov. 11, 2025.
• IGN, "Speaking Amid Jimmy Kimmel's Suspension, Oscar Isaac Said He'd Only Return to Star Wars if Disney Did 'Not Succumb to Fascism'", Nov. 10, 2025.
• Variety, "Oscar Isaac Was ‘Not So Open to Working With Disney’ After Jimmy Kimmel Suspension, Said He’d Return to ‘Star Wars’ if Disney Does ‘Not Succumb to Fascism’", Nov 10, 2025.
• Deadline, "Oscar Isaac Is Reconsidering His Plans To Return To The ‘Star Wars’ Universe, But He Has One Condition For Working With Disney Again", Nov 10, 2025.
• The Guardian, "Oscar Isaac says he would only do Star Wars again if Disney doesn’t ‘succumb to fascism’", Nov 11, 2025.