Oscar Isaac's Star Wars Return: Disney Needs to "Figure It Out"

Could we see Poe Dameron back in the cockpit? Oscar Isaac says he's open to returning to the Star Wars universe, but he's laid down a significant condition for Disney following a recent corporate controversy.

TL;DR

• Oscar Isaac is "open" to reprising his Star Wars role as Poe Dameron, a shift from previous comments.
• However, he's "not so open to working with Disney" right now, tying his return to the company's handling of the Jimmy Kimmel suspension.
• Isaac stated he'd consider it "if they can kinda figure it out and, you know, not succumb to fascism."

A Dashing Pilot's Evolving Stance on Returning to a Galaxy Far, Far Away

Imagine your favorite X-wing pilot, Poe Dameron, zipping through hyperspace again. It’s a dream for many Star Wars fans, and for a while, it seemed like just that—a dream. Actor Oscar Isaac, who brought the charismatic Resistance leader to life across three films, hasn't always been keen on a return. Back in June 2020, following the release of The Rise of Skywalker, he famously quipped to Deadline that he'd consider it "if I need another house or something." That's a pretty cheeky way to say "probably not," right?

Fast forward more than five years, and Isaac himself admits that was a "slightly dickish thing" to say, as revealed in a recent GQ interview. He clarified that "people ask you things, you say stuff, you don't really think about it that much." His perspective has clearly softened since then. Just a few months ago, in late August, before the world premiere of his new film, Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein, Isaac told Variety that he was "more than open" to playing Poe again "if there was something good to do with that."

The Unforeseen Corporate Drama That Shifted the Conversation

So, a potential Poe Dameron comeback seemed to be on the table. But then, a real-world corporate drama unfolded that added a massive caveat to Isaac's willingness to work with Disney. His GQ interview, where he expressed his latest conditions, was conducted just two days after ABC and Disney made a controversial decision to suspend late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.

Kimmel had made a highly critical on-air monologue on September 15 about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, remarking, "We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and with everything they can to score political points from it." Disney-owned ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! in response to these comments.

This move sparked an immediate outcry across Hollywood and political circles. Several prominent figures, including actors Pedro Pascal, Mark Ruffalo, and Olivia Rodrigo, publicly voiced their support for Kimmel and condemned Disney's decision. Tatiana Maslany, who plays She-Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, even urged followers to cancel subscriptions to Disney-owned services like Disney+ and Hulu. Damon Lindelof, creator of the beloved ABC series Lost, stated he wouldn't work with Disney+ again unless Kimmel was reinstated. Source: The Guardian, "Oscar Isaac says he would only do Star Wars again if Disney doesn’t ‘succumb to fascism’", Nov 10, 2025.

When an Actor's Principles Meet a Studio's Decisions

Against this backdrop of heightened tension and debate over corporate censorship, Isaac gave his pivotal GQ interview. His comments, specifically about Disney needing to "figure it out" and "not succumb to fascism," directly reflect the contentious environment created by the Kimmel situation. It's a powerful statement from an actor who, through his role as Poe Dameron, embodied resistance against oppressive forces in the Star Wars saga.

Oscar Isaac on working with Disney again:

"Yeah. I mean, I'd be open to it, 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 an interview with GQ

This isn't just about a potential Star Wars movie; it's about the broader implications of corporate behavior for artists and their freedom of expression. Disney's decision was reportedly made by CEO Bob Iger and head of television Dana Walden. Moreover, the situation escalated when Brendan Carr, the pro-Trump chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), threatened the licenses of Disney and local broadcasters that aired Kimmel’s show. Senator Ted Cruz even called Carr's comments "dangerous as hell." Source: The Guardian, "Oscar Isaac says he would only do Star Wars again if Disney doesn’t ‘succumb to fascism’", Nov 10, 2025.

The Ripple Effect: Audience Reaction and Reinstatement

The controversy wasn't just confined to Hollywood and political corridors; it also resonated with audiences. Reports indicated that Disney+ and Hulu cancellation rates doubled after Kimmel's suspension, suggesting that viewers were also responding with their wallets. This financial impact, coupled with the widespread criticism, put significant pressure on the entertainment giant.

Just four days after Isaac's GQ interview was conducted, Jimmy Kimmel was reinstated by ABC, returning to air on September 23. Upon his return, an emotional Kimmel thanked everyone who "supported our show, cared enough to do something about it, to make your voices heard so that mine could be heard. I will never forget it." Source: 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.

Understanding the Complexities and Nuances of Creative Partnerships

It’s easy to view these situations in black and white, but the reality is often much more complex. While Isaac's "fascism" comment was strong, it was made during the height of the controversy when Kimmel's future was uncertain and political pressure was mounting. With Kimmel now back on air, the immediate trigger for Isaac's strong language has been addressed, at least partially. This doesn't erase the initial corporate decision, but it does change the landscape Isaac was reacting to.

Another layer of nuance comes from Isaac's own evolving perspective on his roles. His "house" comment was a flippant remark made years ago, which he now regrets. This shows a willingness to revisit and refine his public statements, hinting that his current stance on Disney might also be open to re-evaluation as circumstances change. Actors often juggle multiple commitments and personal principles, and navigating these can be tricky.

A Hypothetical Scenario: The Actor's Dilemma in a Shifting Industry

Consider an actor, let's call her "Maya," who is passionate about environmental causes. She's offered a lucrative role in a major studio film, but shortly before accepting, that same studio makes a public decision to invest heavily in a controversial project known for its significant environmental impact. Maya faces a dilemma: take the career-defining role or stand by her principles. She might express her concerns publicly, hoping to influence the studio or at least make her stance clear, even if it means jeopardizing the role. This mirrors Isaac's situation, where his passion for his craft (and potentially Star Wars) clashes with his ethical concerns about the studio's broader corporate actions.

The entertainment industry is not immune to societal and political currents. Studio decisions, especially those perceived to stifle free speech or align with certain political agendas, can significantly impact an artist's willingness to collaborate. For actors like Isaac, who often embody heroic figures fighting for freedom and justice on screen, there can be a strong personal imperative to ensure their professional affiliations align with their values off-screen.

What This Means for the Future of Star Wars and Beyond

While Oscar Isaac's comments certainly stir the pot for Star Wars fans, it's important to remember that his return, even if Disney "figures it out," isn't a guaranteed thing. Lucasfilm and Disney are already developing the New Jedi Order movie, which will continue Rey's story with Daisy Ridley, but a release date is still TBD. Whether Poe Dameron would fit into that narrative, or a separate project, remains to be seen.

Isaac also has other ties to Disney, having starred as the titular hero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe's Moon Knight series on Disney+ in 2022. This further complicates his relationship with the company, as any future Marvel projects could also fall under the same "condition." It means Disney's corporate decisions might have wider implications for their many franchises and the talent they hope to attract or retain.

Practical Takeaways for Fans and Film Enthusiasts

• Don't give up hope for Poe: Oscar Isaac is genuinely open to reprising Poe Dameron, a significant shift from his previous "if I need another house" comments.
• Keep an eye on Disney's corporate actions: Isaac's conditions highlight how studio decisions beyond filmmaking can influence actors and future projects.
• The Kimmel controversy has (mostly) subsided: With Jimmy Kimmel back on air, the immediate tension that fueled Isaac's strong statement has eased, potentially smoothing the path for future collaborations.
• Star Wars' future is still expanding: While Isaac's return is conditional, the franchise continues with projects like the New Jedi Order movie, keeping the galaxy alive.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

When did Oscar Isaac make these comments about Disney? Oscar Isaac made these specific comments about Disney and "fascism" in an interview with GQ that was conducted in mid-September, two days after Jimmy Kimmel's suspension and four days before Kimmel returned to air. What was Jimmy Kimmel suspended for? Jimmy Kimmel was suspended by ABC and Disney for comments he made during his September 15 monologue regarding the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and reactions from the "MAGA gang." Has Oscar Isaac said anything about returning to Star Wars before? Yes, in June 2020, he jokingly said he'd return "if I need another house." More recently, in late August (before the Kimmel controversy), he told Variety he was "more than open" if there was a good story. His current comments add the specific condition about Disney's corporate stance. Are there plans for Poe Dameron to return to Star Wars? Currently, Lucasfilm and Disney have not made any official announcements regarding Poe Dameron's future in the franchise. The upcoming New Jedi Order movie is set to continue Rey's story, but no details about other characters have been revealed.

Sources

• ScreenRant, "Oscar Isaac Gets Candid About Potential Star Wars Return After More Than Half A Decade," Nov 10, 2025.
• The Guardian, "Oscar Isaac says he would only do Star Wars again if Disney doesn’t ‘succumb to fascism’," Nov 10, 2025.
• MLive, "Oscar Isaac would consider a return to Disney’s Star Wars universe, but under one condition," 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.
• Fox News, "Oscar Isaac told GQ he was 'not so open' to working with Disney amid Kimmel controversy," Nov 10, 2025.
• Deadline, "Oscar Isaac Open To Returning To ‘Star Wars’ Universe If Disney Can “Figure It Out” & “Not Succumb To Fascism”," Nov 10, 2025.
• Yahoo Entertainment, "Oscar Isaac Says He Would Return To Star Wars If Disney Could “Not Succumb To Fascism”," Nov 10, 2025.
• The Independent, "Oscar Isaac expresses hesitancy to work with Disney on Star Wars again due to Jimmy Kimmel suspension," Nov 10, 2025.
• TheWrap, "Oscar Isaac ‘Not So Open’ to Disney Projects After Kimmel Suspension – Until They Figure Out How to Not ‘Succumb to Fascism’," Nov 10, 2025.