Disney+’s The Acolyte was canceled after one season, and while many fans were devastated by the news, the cast members were equally upset. In fact, Manny Jacinto broke his silence regarding the issue after his performance as Qimir was lauded by viewers.
Helmed by Leslye Headland, the series started on a good footing with the audience getting invested in the murder mystery storyline. As the plot progressed, it received more and more backlash for varied reasons. In the end, the axe fell on its head.
Manny Jacinto Wants Season 2 Of The Acolyte
The Acolyte will no longer move forward with Season 2 after Disney decided to pull the plug. It was due to low viewership and fans’ infamous review-bombing practice that tarnished the show’s image, and its costly budget – $180 million – was clearly mishandled as evident in fans’ criticism of its mediocre plot.
That being said, fans should not be expecting a follow-up installment unless otherwise stated, or unless Manny Jacinto’s wish is granted. The actor who played Qimir in the show revealed one of his goals in life before he leaves this mortal coil is to return and make Season 2 of The Acolyte. Check out his panel interview at Dragon Con below (via Digital LA):
Manny Jacinto (Acolyte) answers question: What is a personal life goal?
— Digital LA (@DigitalLA) September 1, 2024
Answer: Season 2 of The Acolyte
With massive applause and cheering at Dragon Con panel @dragoncon #StarWars panel #DragonCon #acolyte @sw_holocron @WookieeLeaks pic.twitter.com/2kJx5gFvMM
Jacinto was indeed the breakout star of the show. From a supporting character, Qimir emerged as a dark new villain that fans had to watch out for. The actor brought so much enthusiasm to his role that the unmasking of Qimir became a seminal event in the series. Despite his antagonist role, he became a fan-favorite star, which is why the cancellation was quite devastating.
His arc in The Acolyte opened for possibilities of further exploration in Season 2, so it is indeed a massive loss if his character’s narrative permanently ends in Season 1. Jacinto’s statement at the event drew support and cheer from the audience who clearly also wanted to see him reprise his role.
Leslye Headland previously intended to make The Acolyte a trilogy, and with the help of loyal fans, the campaign to renew the show emerged before Disney announced the sad news. Jacinto still holds out his hope that the studio would reconsider reviving the series.
An Older Version Of Qimir Might Have Been Possible
Jacinto previously talked about the possibility of playing an older, hooded Qimir if Season 2 happens. In a conversation with IndieWire, he said he wants to explore that angle and see what happens. The 37-year-old star admitted “the character is something I’ve never been able to touch before” which he believed he might never do again.
Regardless, he wants to portray Qimir for many more years if the show gets renewed under miraculous circumstances. At this point, only a strong public demand and the discretion of Disney can undo the cancellation of the series.
The Acolyte is currently available to stream on Disney+.
