Star Wars Actor Says He Was Told to Cut Off His Dreadlocks as They'd Be Too 'Realistic,' Despite The Franchise Being About 'Giant Slugs and Swords Made of Light'

Jordan Stephens, known for his role as Corporal Tonc in Star Wars: Rogue One, refused to return to the Disney+ series Andor after being instructed to cut his dreadlocks. The actor, who is also part of the rap duo Rizzle Kicks, had been sporting his dreadlocks for seven years prior to the film. Despite arguing that his helmet in Rogue One would have concealed them, Stephens was told that the actor's locks would be deemed unrealistic in Andor.

When confronted with the franchise's fantastical elements such as giant slugs and lightsabers, Stephens expressed disbelief at the decision, stating that it was "absolutely insane." The stipulation meant Stephens ultimately declined the role, missing out on a highly-acclaimed Star Wars production.