Diego Luna's Strange Obsession With Jabba The Hutt's Skin
A long time ago, back in 2016, Rogue One debuted in theaters and introduced audiences to the Rebel intelligence officer Cassian Andor. After the movie’s release, it looked like that would be the last we would see of the courageous soldier. Then The Mandalorian came along, and with its resounding success, Disney announced a new line-up of live-action shows to take place across the larger Star Wars universe.
One such show slated for release is Andor, which will focus on the eponymous freedom fighter’s time in the Alliance before the events of the film. “I’m just happy, I’m happy to be part of that universe,” said Diego Luna, the actor who played Cassian Andor. And while he was initially thrilled to return to the role, the added attention from the media brought to light something the actor would rather forget: his infamous relationship with the vile gangster, Jabba the Hutt.
During his tour promoting Rogue One, Luna and his costars were constantly going from one interview to the next to promote the film across the globe. Answering various questions about Star Wars in general and more specifically questions about the movie itself. Not an easy feat when you’re not at liberty to discuss any behind the scenes info on the story. "I’m not allowed to talk about it, which is great because I haven’t started.” The need for secrecy never stops interviewers, though, so many actors have to get creative to entertain the viewers while not spilling the beans.
Whether it was stress, nervousness, or just being caught off guard, Luna let it slip that he was interested in spending some quality time with Jabba. In an interview that still haunts him, to avoid giving out classified information regarding Rogue One, he expressed his interest in touching the crime lord. “Jabba, I’ve always wanted to touch him, like the texture of Jabba I need to discover.” Coupled with his suggestive groping motions, it didn’t exactly give off the best vibe.
Luna’s antics became a running joke amongst interviewers and talk show hosts alike. Last year, this happened with Jimmy Fallon, who had a go and poked fun at Luna by showing off a medley of interviews where the subject was brought up followed by Luna’s reaction. “That was one interview!” he cried. After a good laugh, Luna explained himself before looking at the camera to address the audience. He wanted people to know that, despite appearances and his desire to feel him up, he had no real love for Jabba.
“I’m not in love with Jabba, that was one big mistake I made.”
With that bold statement, it looked like the potential for their relationship was cut short. When asked if Jabba would appear in the Disney+ show and give him a chance to finally touch the mob boss’s belly, Luna laminated that he neglected to add that to his contract because “he was an idiot” and he “would do everything else just to touch Jabba.” Only time will tell if he’ll finally get the chance to fulfill his longtime dream.
For his part, Luna is taking it in stride, laughing along with the whole embarrassing fiasco. Although he would like fans to stop sending him Jabba merchandise.
“I have like seven Jabbas at home. Everyone gives me Jabbas. ‘What’s the best gift for Diego? He turned 40, oh, your Jabba!’ No!”
Hopefully the arrival of his new show will give him a much-needed break from all the teasing. As it stands, Andor is set to launch on Disney’s streaming service sometime in 2022. So he might have to wait for a while with the rest of us.