Celebrities pledge to work with John Boyega after he said speaking out on racism might end his career

In recent weeks actor John Boyega has emerged as one of the foremost voices in the entertainment industry speaking up about the wave of Black Lives Matter protests sweeping the globe.

Last month he took to Twitter and Instagram to speak passionately about the impact racism had on him and black communities.

His no-holds barred comments drew praise at the time but Boyega seemingly also acknowledged that his career could potentially suffer from talking so openly about racism.

“It’s not about career, it’s not about money…” he wrote in a tweet.

“All those things were just a part of my dream, just a part of working. That’s got nothing to do with how you treat people”.

Yesterday, Boyega made a powerful, emotive speech at a London Black Lives Matter protest, where he voiced those concerns again.

Speaking in front of a crowd of thousands, visibly choked with emotion, the 28 year-old actor spoke at length about racism and his hopes for the BLM movement.

“Black lives have always mattered”, he said at one point.

“We have always meant something […] I need you to understand how painful this shit is. I need you to understand how painful it is to be reminded every day that your race means nothing and that isn’t the case anymore, that was never the case anymore”.

Boyega listed the names of victims of police brutality, including Trayvon Martin and Mark Duggan, adding:

Originally from south London, Boyega shot to global fame after being cast as Finn in the Star Wars sequel trilogy.

Boyega’s IMBD page says he is scheduled to appear in film Naked Singularity in 2020 but as of yet, no other projects have been announced.

After footage of the actor’s tearful speech went viral, other celebrities began pledging their support for him.

“We got you John,” tweeted screenwriter and director Jordan Peele.

Director Matthew A. Cherry also said he wanted to work with Boyega, urging non-black industry professionals to do the same.

J.J Abrams, who wrote and directed the Star Wars trilogy Boyega starred in also reaffirmed his support, sending his “deep love and respect”.

JK Rowling also said she was happy to work with him.

Boyega was also hailed a “hero” by LucasFilm, who own the Star Wars franchise in a statement.

Co-star Mark Hamil also said he had “never been more proud”.

But It didn’t go unnoticed that Boyega was having to potentially choose between challenging racism openly or having a thriving career.

Particularly when white celebrities are praised for speaking out and can often enjoy career boosts after cultivating an “activist” profile.

From now on, if John Boyega’s in it, we’re getting tickets.