Star Wars: Recasting the original and prequel trilogies for the 2020s

8. Michael B. Jordan as Darth Maul

Despite having his lines dubbed over and his presence lasting only a single movie, Ray Park’s performance as Darth Maul in The Phantom Menace remains the most beloved and well-respected parts of that often criticized movie. Park’s career experience has largely been as a stunt double or in non-speaking parts, but he’s always made a great impact in those moments.

The voice for Maul’s few lines was provided by Peter Serafinowicz, who was relatively unknown at the time but has gone on to play the role of Pete in Shaun of the Dead and portray the title character in the 2016 live-action series The Tick. Choosing someone to portray Maul today in a recast of The Phantom Menace could include imagining a more prominent speaking role to come with it, and that would definitely be needed if Michael B. Jordan could become Darth Maul.

Jordan was actually close to finding a spot in Star Wars just under a decade ago, as he was one of many who auditioned during the casting process for The Force Awakens, but he ultimately didn’t receive the role. Jordan has shown his acting chops since in the Creed franchise and will even make his directorial debut in Creed III, which is due out in 2022.

However, to take on the role of Darth Maul, the imagination turns to his performance as Erik Killmonger in Black Panther. Jordan was able to give power and voice to what became an unforgettable villain, and he could do the same with Darth Maul if given the opportunity.