The official cast for Star Wars Episode IX has been announced. Fans received a few unexpected surprises with the news.
As the release of Star Wars Episode IX crawls closer, we received more bits and pieces of information about the film’s characters, plot, and more.
Star Wars confirmed Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, John Boyega, and other new favorites will return in Episode IX. But it also settled a few rumors about legacy cast members from the original films.
It is now officially confirmed Billy Dee Williams will reprise his original role as Lando Calrissian in the film.
Anthony Daniels will once again play the role of C-3PO.
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Mark Hamill will also join the Episode IX cast, but we don’t know yet in what capacity.
But the news that most surprised fans of the original and sequel trilogies involves Leia Organa – and the now late actress who first brought her to the big screen over 40 years ago.
Not long after Carrie Fisher’s passing in 2016, Lucasfilm promised they wouldn’t cast a different actress to play the character or use CGI technology to replace her. Up until now, most fans have assumed she would appear in Episode IX only by mention.
In its casting announcement, Star Wars confirmed Fisher will appear in the final episode of the sequel trilogy through unused footage from The Force Awakens.
Exactly what footage and how it will be used is still unknown.
Star Wars soundtrack fans can also expect to once again hear music composed by John Williams, who has provided the galaxy far, far away with unforgettable accompaniment since 1977.
Filming is set to begin on August 1, 2018.
Star Wars Episode IX will hit theaters in December 2019.