Carrie Fisher tragically died at 60 in 2016, leaving many under the assumption that her role in The Last Jedi would be her last turn as Princess Leia. As it turns out, she will still appear in Star Wars: Episode IX.
The film, which is being directed by J.J. Abrams, officially started production today. After long discussions about what to do, the filmmakers have decided to use unused footage from The Force Awakens for the film.
"We desperately loved Carrie Fisher," Abrams said in a statement. "Finding a truly satisfying conclusion to the Skywalker saga without her eluded us. We were never going to recast, or use a CG character. With the support and blessing from her daughter, Billie, we have found a way to honour Carrie's legacy and role as Leia in Episode IX by using unseen footage we shot together in Episode VII."
Considering how vengeful certain corners of the Star Wars fandom can be, this was certainly a wise move. That said, some were petitioning for Meryl Streep to take on the role.
The film, which is being directed by J.J. Abrams, officially started production today. After long discussions about what to do, the filmmakers have decided to use unused footage from The Force Awakens for the film.
"We desperately loved Carrie Fisher," Abrams said in a statement. "Finding a truly satisfying conclusion to the Skywalker saga without her eluded us. We were never going to recast, or use a CG character. With the support and blessing from her daughter, Billie, we have found a way to honour Carrie's legacy and role as Leia in Episode IX by using unseen footage we shot together in Episode VII."
Considering how vengeful certain corners of the Star Wars fandom can be, this was certainly a wise move. That said, some were petitioning for Meryl Streep to take on the role.