The late Carrie Fisher will reportedly feature more prominently in the next Star Wars film.
The writer and actress, who was best known for her role as Princess Leia in the original Star Wars trilogy, passed away yesterday (December 27), her family confirmed. She had suffered a cardiac arrest on Friday (December 23) while on board a flight from London to LA.
She reprised her role as Leia in last year’s Star Wars: The Force Awakens and will also be seen in next year’s Star Wars: Episode VIII. According to Deadline, Fisher had already shot her scenes for the film and plays “a larger role” than in The Force Awakens.
However, Fisher had yet to start shooting Star Wars: Episode IX, which is due in 2019.
Fisher’s actress daughter Billie Lourd, who appeared alongside her in The Force Awakens, will also feature in Star Wars: Episode VIII, according to the report.
PressThe actress’s famous Star Wars co-stars Harrison Ford and Mark Hamill have both paid tribute to Fisher since news of her death broke.
JJ Abrams, who directed Fisher in last year’s successful Star Wars revival The Force Awakens, has also written a short tribute to the actress, eulogising her “power.”
See below for a selection of tributes to Carrie Fisher from other Star Wars cast members and production staff.
Princess Leia, @carrieffisher now one with the Force. Your kindness & sharp wit will be missed. #RIP PS: Thanks for the milk & cookies. xx pic.twitter.com/sFSy9UmvYY
— Warwick Davis (@WarwickADavis) December 27, 2016
I thought I had got what I wanted under the tree. I didn't. In spite of so many thoughts and prayers from so many. I am very, very sad.
— Anthony Daniels (@ADaniels3PO) December 27, 2016
My heart is heavy but I'm grateful that I got to know her. I'll cherish the memories, conversations and her consistent support. Rest well ❤️ pic.twitter.com/SkPiRgGf03
— John Boyega (@JohnBoyega) December 28, 2016
We've lost our Princess. pic.twitter.com/N9xMYe6jLT
— Gwendoline Christie (@lovegwendoline) December 27, 2016
There are no words for this loss. Carrie was the brightest light in every room she entered. I will miss her dearly. pic.twitter.com/GgIeYGeMt9
— Peter Mayhew (@TheWookieeRoars) December 27, 2016
I'm deeply saddened at the news of Carrie's passing. She was a dear friend, whom I greatly respected and admired. The force is dark today!
— Billy Dee Williams (@realbdw) December 27, 2016
"She was Princess Leia to the world but a special friend to all of us. We will miss her dearly." -Kathleen Kennedy https://t.co/E96OuqnFQL pic.twitter.com/lr0rm0sRxc
— Star Wars (@starwars) December 27, 2016