Another Disney star has found herself the target of cancel culture after behind-the-scenes video footage surfaced of her glamorizing a habit society has overwhelmingly grown to hate.
Disney has had to contend with many issues surrounding the Star Wars franchise since acquiring Lucasfilm in 2012. Fans have become increasingly critical of Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy and the studio’s direction with the multimedia series, and now the company is dealing with one of its stars getting herself into hot water.
Ahsoka on Disney+
The Ahsoka Disney+ series emerged as a moderate success for Lucasfilm, satisfying dedicated Star Wars enthusiasts and new audiences. Ahsoka Tano, a beloved character introduced in the 2008 Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated series, finally took the spotlight in this long-anticipated live-action production.
The show’s debut week saw a staggering 14 million views, making it the most-watched title on Disney+ during that period. It was a strong showing, though it fell short of Obi-Wan Kenobi (2022), which overwhelmingly disappointed fans upon release.
One of the key factors contributing to Ahsoka’s success lies in its impeccable production values. The show is a visual spectacle featuring stunning cinematography and gripping action sequences that captivate audiences.
Star Wars Fans’ Approval
Rosario Dawson’s portrayal of Ahsoka has been widely praised, with her performance standing out as a series highlight. The commitment to high-quality production has undoubtedly added to the show’s appeal, drawing in viewers seeking a visually engaging and well-executed narrative.
Beyond its technical brilliance, Ahsoka distinguishes itself by weaving a compelling story that resonates within the broader Star Wars universe. The series delves into themes of loss, redemption, and hope, exploring the darker corners of the galaxy far, far away.
Seeing Star Wars Rebels characters such as Sabin Wren, Grand Admiral Thrawn, Hera Syndulla, and Ezra Bridger in live-action was another win for fans. Furthermore, new characters like Ukrainian actress Ivanna Sakhno’s Shin Hati and the deceased actor Ray Stevenson’s Baylan Skoll were also met with enthusiasm.
Ahsoka Disney+ Actress Ivanna Sakno Controversy
However, not all is well in the galaxy far away. Recently, a video was released on social media showing Ivanna Sakhno engaging in shocking behavior. Many fans have been disgusted with the footage, and the actress has been the subject of cancel culture this week.
In the video, Sakhno is seen lighting a cigarette while wearing sunglasses and riding an electric toy landspeeder replica from Star Wars (1977). She then slowly rides off while making a sensual face into the camera.
Ivanna Sakhno behind the scenes of #Ahsoka 🚬 pic.twitter.com/Kl1N3A84Lp
— Culture Crave 🍿 (@CultureCrave) November 10, 2023
Critics on social media were quick to dismantle the star. They found the footage unattractive and called for an end to glamorizing smoking.
Smoking gotta be one of the most disgusting habits.
Smoking gotta be one of the most disgusting habits. 🤢 pic.twitter.com/JONmJ1CG73
— astrophysickz (@astrophysickz) November 10, 2023
Fans were not at all enabling Sakhno’s glorification of the harmful behavior. They stressed that cigarettes are not cool.
Idk who finds this attractive but this is absolutely disgusting. People and especially women need to get over the idea that smoking is “cool”
Idk who finds this attractive but this is absolutely disgusting. People and especially women need to get over the idea that smoking is "cool"
— Screen Wizard 🧙♂️ (@screenwizardz) November 10, 2023
Defending Ivanna Sokhno
While many were critical of the actress, others tried to defend her. They pointed out that Anakin Skywalker actor Hayden Christensen also engaged in similar behind-the-scenes behavior on the set of Obi-Wan Kenobi without getting attacked for it.
You know Hayden Christensen had pictures on set of Obi Wan smoking while riding an electric scooter…make sure you bring that same energy for him.
You know Hayden Christensen had pictures on set of Obi Wan smoking while riding an electric scooter….make sure you bring that same energy for him.
— Shawn W (@BiscuitsDad30) November 10, 2023
A Changing Galaxy
In contemporary society, views on smoking have markedly shifted, reflecting a growing consensus on the health risks associated with tobacco use. Smoking is generally perceived as socially undesirable, with an increasing emphasis on public health campaigns highlighting its adverse effects.
Many societies now consider smoking a detrimental habit, often imposing strict regulations on public smoking areas and implementing anti-smoking initiatives. The harmful consequences of smoking have promoted a collective effort towards healthier lifestyles and a reduction in tobacco consumption.
Ivanna Sokhno’s behavior is ultimately up to the viewer to discern. She will most likely not be successfully canceled. However, the footage did cause a disturbance in the force for many fans.
This post originally appeared on Disney Dining.


