Ian McDiarmid addressed the skepticism surrounding his character’s unexpected revival and the complexities of Palpatine’s lineage, including the revelation of Rey’s ancestry, in an exclusive interview with Empire.
The actor’s return as Emperor Palpatine in “The Rise of Skywalker” reportedly stirred a mix of surprise and controversy among “Star Wars” enthusiasts. The conversation with Empire also ventured into the more peculiar aspects of Palpatine’s character, specifically the notion of him engaging in sexual activities.
“Please don’t pursue that line too vigorously,” McDiarmid told the outlet. “But yes, he does [have sex]. It’s a horrible idea to think of Palpatine having sex in any shape or form. But then, of course, perhaps he didn’t.”
“He does [have sex]. It’s a horrible idea to think of Palpatine having sex in any shape or form. But … perhaps he didn’t … Maybe it’s all to do with midi-chlorians – and don’t ask me what those are” – Ian McDiarmid | https://t.co/W1EPqAeE0e pic.twitter.com/e7PZJR6slS
— IGN (@IGN) February 13, 2024
The revelation in “The Rise of Skywalker” that Rey was Palpatine’s granddaughter, reportedly through a clone, added layers to the already complex narrative of the “Star Wars” universe. McDiarmid’s comments on this narrative to Empire were infused with a touch of humor.
McDiarmid reportedly acknowledged the apparent finality of Palpatine’s demise in “Return of the Jedi,” a sentiment shared by George Lucas. Yet the decision by J.J. Abrams to resurrect the character for the final installment of the Skywalker saga was something McDiarmid embraced, hinting at Palpatine’s knack for contingency planning and his expertise in cloning as plausible justifications for his comeback, according to the outlet. (RELATED: Harrison Ford’s Incomplete Star Wars Script To Be Auctioned In London: REPORT)
“I felt that Palpatine always had a plan B — probably a plan C, D, E, and F as well,” McDiarmid informed Empire. “And he was an expert in cloning, so …”
“Star Wars” fans have much to anticipate with the announced expansion of the cinematic universe, including a movie focusing on “The Mandalorian & Grogu” set for release in 2026, followed by another feature starring Daisy Ridley in the role of Rey, according to Game Spot. These upcoming projects promise to further explore and enrich the sprawling saga that has captivated audiences for decades.