Is the Fans' Hatred of Rose in Star Wars: The Last Jedi a Product of Sexism?

The intense backlash against Star Wars: The Last Jedi is multifaceted, but a prevalent argument is that the fan community's negative reception of certain characters, particularly Rose Tico, stems from deep-rooted sexism. This article delves into the reasons behind this phenomenon, examining how the very nature of fan expectations and cultural shifts contribute to such reactions.

Resistance to Change

The resistance to change is perhaps the most obvious reason why fans of the Star Wars saga found Star Wars: The Last Jedi so disappointing. Much like collectors and enthusiasts who treat beloved icons such as The Beatles or Michael Jackson with reverence, Star Wars fans consider the original trilogy as an untouchable artifact. The late 1970s and early 1980s were a time when the cultural landscape was defined by a clear sense of authority and authenticity with any departure from these revered works seen as sacrilegious.

For many purported purists, the idea that the New Star Wars trilogy could take the franchise in new, untested directions would be akin to shattering the very integrity these films represent. This protectionism is not confined to visual and narrative choices but extends to the characters and plot arcs that define the series. Characters such as Rose Tico, who fundamentally redefined the narrative and introduced a fresh perspective, were seen as a direct threat to the sanctity of the Star Wars legacy.

The Cultural War and Precious Franchises

More deeply, the cultural wars and shifting demographics of the fanbase play a significant role in this discussion. The internet era ushered in a new breed of genre enthusiasts who increasingly demanded more diverse and inclusive representations in media. The idea that beloved franchises might evolve to reflect a more representative and nuanced audience became a source of outrage for many.

The introduction of Rose Tico exemplifies this tension. Unlike the typical spectacle-driven characters such as Princess Leia or a lone-wolf protagonist, Rose Tico portrayed a character who was not glamorous or marketable. In a franchise built around vividly detailed heroes and combat-centric narratives, Rose represented a shift that many fans found unsettling. The character's humility, empathy, and willingness to serve in the background challenged the rote expectations of what a Star Wars hero should be—namely, a figure of relentless heroism that sacrifices everything for the greater good.

Intersectional Criticism and Misogyny

Another layer of offensive reactions to Rose Tico involved her intersectional critique not just of the Star Wars narrative but of the genre as a whole. Her racial identity and the absence of traditional attractiveness standards made her a prime target for those who felt their concept of the franchise was being muscled by new, unfamiliar representations.

As a person of Asian heritage, Rose presented a new dimension to the cast that particularly challenged the usual tropes. The fact that she was not a traditionally attractive or spectacular character was particularly jarring, leading to a series of criticisms that often defaulted to misogynistic and xenophobic tropes. The reaction to her speaking up against the unnecessary sacrifice of another character—including her famous interruption of Rey's emotional climax—highlighted the ways in which some fans reacted not only to the character but to the crisis of identity within the franchise itself.

Harassment and Lynching as a Reaction

The backlash against Rose Tico was not just about character development but a broader critique of the franchise's evolution. It is a well-documented trend that when franchises attempt to expand their narratives to include diverse voices, critics resort to violent online harassment and character assassination. This phenomenon is not unique to Star Wars but reflects a broader pattern in the gaming and entertainment industry where creators face intense backlash for challenging existing power structures.

In the case of Kelly Marie Tran who played Rose Tico, her personal experiences illustrate the harsh reality of these criticisms. The insidious comments, death threats, and online violence she faced underscore the genuine harm that such reactions can cause to both the creators and the actors. This form of {misogyny and harassment} is far from isolated incidents and reflects deeper societal issues around gender and race.

Conclusion

The critique of Rose Tico in Star Wars: The Last Jedi is a multifaceted issue rooted in fan expectations, cultural shifts, and intersectional criticism. While the movie itself garnered mixed reviews, the intense and often sexist backlash against her character highlights the broader challenges of evolving narratives in popular culture. It serves as a critical discussion point regarding the intersection of media representation, fan culture, and the ongoing battle for inclusivity.