Star Wars: George Lucas just revealed his SURPRISING favourite character from the saga

Lucas helmed the original Star Wars trilogy and its prequels; introducing the likes of Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Darth Vader and Han Solo to the world.

But none of those icons stand as his favourite ever character.

It’s not even one of the legendary supporting players, like Chewbacca, C-3PO, R2-D2, Jabba the Hutt, Obi-Wan Kenobi or Padme Amidala.

No: his favourite Star Wars character is Jar Jar Binks.

The Gungan was, famously, met with an incredibly divided reaction when the prequels arrived in the late 1990s, with the backlash growing so severe that it seriously impacted actor Ahmed Best’s mental health to the point where he considered ending his life.

But Lucas has continued to be one of his biggest cheerleaders.

Speaking in a video message shared at Star Wars Celebration over the weekend, he said: “[The Phantom Menace] is one of my favourite movies, and of course Jar Jar is my favourite character.

“Ahmed did a fantastic job, it was very, very hard.”

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of Episode I, he went on: “We broke a lot of ground, we were using test equipment – but it was the beginning of digital.

“It was one of the first digital features and I’m very proud of that.

“The fans are such a big part of these films and obviously those of you who are here [at Star Wars Celebration] are the fans of Episode I and I love each and every one of you.”

Best himself also appeared at Star Wars Celebration and received a moving standing ovation from the audience.

He later tweeted: “I’m overwhelmed with the love and support I got at today’s @SW_Celebration #phantommenace panel.

“It was very difficult not break down in a puddle of gratitude tears. Thank you each and everyone. Your love is felt so greatly.”

Star Wars Celebration also marked the beginning of promotion for Episode 9 in the series, finally titled The Rise of Skywalker.

That movie – complete with the return of Palpatine – will be out on December 19 in the UK.