Some of Hollywood’s biggest names have applauded John Boyega following his impassioned speech during anti-racism protests in London.
The actor told Black Lives Matter demonstrators in Hyde Park he was “speaking to you from my heart” as he delivered a rousing message through a megaphone.
He paid tribute to George Floyd, the Black civilian who died in police custody last week, as well as namechecking other Black people who have died at the hands of police in both the UK and US.
The Star Wars star also said he thought speaking out could harm his career.
John was widely praised for the speech, with his Star Wars co-star Mark Hamill among those showing him support.
Mark tweeted: “Never been more proud of you, John.” He signed off the message with “dad”.
The official Star Wars Twitter account said the actor was a “hero” for using his platform to speak out.
“Lucasfilm stands with John Boyega and his message that now is the time. Black lives have always mattered,” it read.
“‘Black lives have always been important. Black lives have always meant something’. The evil that is racism must stop. We will commit to being part of the change that is long overdue in the world. John Boyega, you are our hero.”
Jordan Peele, the Oscar-winning director of Get Out, said: “We got you, John.”
Actor Yvette Nicole Brown added: “Dear @JohnBoyega, I see you and I love you. Thank you for loving us.
“And know this, being on the right side of history is better than any paycheck complicit silence would provide. I stand with you. WE stand with you.”
Filmmaker Matthew A Cherry quote tweeted the star voicing concerns about how speaking out might harm his career and said: “I would work with John Boyega and I urge other Non-Black creators to affirm that they have his back as well.”
Director Olivia Wilde was among those to respond, saying: “Absolutely. I would be honoured to work with @JohnBoyega and can only hope to have the chance. We’ve got your back, John. Don’t hold back.”
John previously said he did not want to “work in fear” when in the US, as he addressed the unrest spreading across the US and elsewhere.
Mr Floyd died while in police custody after a police officer kneeled on his neck for nine minutes. Former officer Derek Chauvin has been charged with second-degree murder while three others who were at the scene have also been charged in relation to the death.
