Star Wars actor says he almost ended his life due to backlash

July 4, 2018

Star Wars actor Ahmed Best says he almost ended his life due to media backlash.

Read more: Twitter harassment “cures” director from wanting to direct Star Wars

Best, who played Jar Jar Binks in Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace, shared a heartfelt post on Twitter about his suicidal thoughts.

“20 years next year I faced a media backlash that still affects my career today,” Best wrote.

The actor also attached a picture of him and his son, writing, “This was the place I almost ended my life. It’s still hard to talk about.”

“I survived and now this little guy is my gift for survival,” he continued.

20 years next year I faced a media backlash that still affects my career today. This was the place I almost ended my life. It’s still hard to talk about. I survived and now this little guy is my gift for survival. Would this be a good story for my solo show? Lemme know. pic.twitter.com/NvVnImoJ7N

— Ahmed BEst (@ahmedbest) July 3, 2018

Best is not the first person involved in Star Wars to suffer with backlash. Christopher McQuarrie, whose name was tossed around as a potential director for an upcoming Star Wars, said the possibility of him joining the franchise vanished due to some angry tweets he received.

“My friend, After five minutes of this, I don’t know why you’re still on Twitter. I would have loved to make a Star Wars film someday. I’m cured,” McQuarrie wrote.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness, there is help to be found. Please consider these online resources and talk to your regular doctor about your symptoms:
SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
ImAlive – Online Crisis Network
The Anxiety And Depression Association Of America
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Suicide Prevention Initiatives
The Jed Foundation