Overview

• John Boyega revealed he had only £45 (around $60) in his bank account when he traveled to meet J.J. Abrams for his life-changing Star Wars casting.
• He described the audition process as grueling and demeaning, leaving him feeling his dignity had been compromised before securing the role of Finn.
• Boyega recalled the surreal moment Abrams informed him he was cast, with co-writer Lawrence Kasdan predicting the role would transform his career.
• The actor has since criticized the Star Wars franchise for sidelining Black characters, citing his own experience as a lead role that faced diminished focus.
• Boyega's reflections, shared at a recent Chicago panel, continue to spark discussions about systemic inequities and representation in Hollywood blockbusters.