"Star Wars" has condemned "bullying and racism" directed at Krystina Arielle - but many fans are underwhelmed by the statement, seeing it as long overdue.
Arielle was recently announced as the host of "The High Republic Show," an upcoming web series that will explore the creation of the new "High Republic" series of comics and books.
Arielle has since been subjected to racist vitriol from corners of the Star Wars fandom, largely in response to her tweets condemning systemic racism in the US.
Arielle, who is Black, was recently announced as the host of an upcoming web series.
But fans criticized the move as "hypocritical" following past harassment of cast members of color.
Arielle was recently announced as the host of "The High Republic Show," an upcoming web series that will explore the creation of the new "High Republic" series of comics and books.
Arielle has since been subjected to racist vitriol from corners of the Star Wars fandom, largely in response to her tweets condemning systemic racism in the US.
On Friday, the official "Star Wars" account on Twitter responded to the mounting harassment: "Our Star Wars community is one of hope and inclusivity. We do not stand for bullying and racism. We support @KrystinaArielle."
Many fans were appreciative of the statement, describing it as "important."
However, many were also quick to note past failures by the franchise to protect its cast members of color.
"Great to see Lucasfilm/Disney realize they should stand up for members of their community who face unspeakable, hateful harassment," The Verge's Julia Alexander wrote. "It's still infuriating they did not do this for John Boyega, Kelly Marie Tran, Daisy Ridley."
"This is good. We as fans should always ask for better."