Star Wars Actors Preparing for Star Wars: Episode VIII

It seems like eons ago, that Star Wars: The Force Awakens hit the big screen in its worldwide premiere, but in reality, only a month and a half has passed. Now it’s time for the stars of the film to prepare for Star Wars: Episode VIII, and they are taking to Instagram and Twitter to show-off…

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The excitement all started with Daisy Ridley (Rey) posting a photo of the top corner of her Star Wars: Episode VIII script on Instagram. That was quickly followed by a tweet from C-3PO actor, Anthony Daniels. Daniels is a delightful human being who can often times emulate his gold-plated protocol droid character, when dealing with fans. One of our writer (Kyle) had the great pleasure to interact with Mr. Daniels at the Star Wars Celebration in Anaheim, California, early last year, and had nothing but good things to say about him. Here’s what Daniels tweeted about Episode VIII:

As you can see, it would appear the stars of the film were beginning to get excited about Star Wars: Episode VIII, and they wanted to share it with the fans. This is an all new approach for Star Wars fans, as the previous six films were filmed before the creation of social media, where stars could instantly upload photos of what they are doing, so their fans can obsess over them for hours.

On Wednesday, we shared an Instagram photo of John Boyega (Finn) in his work-out attire, and we noticed that it was Kendo gear, meaning he was possibly working on those awesome lightsaber skills.

Well, now you can count Boyega’s co-star, Daisy Ridley (Rey) as one of those Star Wars stars putting in the hours to get ripped. The star posted a video to her Instagram account of a workout, that shows her doing some rigorous calisthenics.

Looks like our dear Rey could be getting into some perilous Jedi training in Star Wars: Episode VIII.

Finally, we’ve got some news on Chewbacca actor and most beloved and adored human being to all Star Wars fans — Peter Mayhew — and another creature star from The Force Awakens — Admiral Ackbar — portrayed by Tim Rose. It seems the two actors have had to cancel their appearance at a local convention, in order to begin filming scenes for Star Wars: Episode VIII

Here’s a quote from the Pensacon Facebook page:

"“Both Peter Mayhew and Tim Rose have been called to report to London for a film project they are working on (It “8” our guests… Wonder what it could be?) and will not be able to attend Pensacon this year. Both send their regrets.”"

Last we saw Chewie, he and R2 had delivered Rey to the planet of Ahch-To where Jedi Master Luke was waiting in exile. I wonder what Chewbacca’s role will be in Episode VIII, and if he will get a chance at revenge against Kylo Ren.

Another cool aspect to this, is old Admiral Ackbar will once again be in the next Star Wars film. Tim Rose has made himself quite the Star Wars legend, through his puppeteering for the films, and Ackbar may be his greatest achievement.

Mike Quinn, who portrays as a puppeteer, Nein Numb in The Force Awakens, also cancelled his Pensacon appearance. Star Wars: Episode VIII is set to hit theaters worldwide on December 15, 2017. Stay Tuned to Dork Side of the Force, as we bring you up-to-the minute news and information on everything Star Wars.