Following the Star Wars sequel trilogy, Lucasfilm has announced three new movies under the epic space opera, including one that will mark the return of Daisy Ridley’s Rey Skywalker. And recent rumors surrounding the film suggest that the studio has begun casting for the upcoming film.
The film is reportedly set 15 years after the events of Episode IX as Rey Skywalker attempts to build and train a New Jedi Order. The studio is rumored to be casting three major roles for the film, one of which could potentially be played by the Black Panther star Angela Bassett.
Angela Bassett is Rumored to Join the New Star Wars Film
According to reports from industry insider Daniel Richtman, Lucasfilm has started the casting process for the highly anticipated next installment in the epic space opera focusing on Daisy Ridley’s Rey Skywalker. As per Richtman, the studio is seeking to cast two new characters, who are expected to portray Rey’s Jedi apprentices, while also scouting for the primary antagonist role.
While the other two roles remain uncertain, rumors suggest that the 65-year-old actress Angela Bassett could take on the antagonistic role in the upcoming film. Richtman also claimed the Oscar-nominated actress’ recently had a meeting with Lucasfilm to discuss a role in the franchise.
Bassett is popularly known for starring in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the Queen Ramonda of Wakanda. She has also earned an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in the 2022 sequel and has recently received an honorary Academy Award.
Richtman also shared that discussions surrounding the upcoming film suggest that it will be a direct follow-up to The Rise of Skywalker, rather than starting a new trilogy for Ridley’s character.
Daisy Ridley Shared Update About Her Upcoming Star Wars Film
During a conversation at SXSW, Daisy Ridley shared an update about her upcoming Star Wars film, which is expected to start filming this year. When asked if the new film, following her character Rey Skywalker, is set to be titled New Jedi Order, the actress responded with uncertainty, stating, “I don’t know!”
She further suggested that she is not aware of any such changes since the announcement. “I mean, I think so. From the announcement, I don’t think that’s changed,” she said as per Collider. Ridley further shared, “I know a script is happening, and I’m going to be reading it imminently, which is very exciting.”
As of now, no further updates regarding the film’s progress have been revealed. The upcoming film is set to bring Ridley back as Rey Skywalker and is anticipated to explore her role in leading a Jedi Academy. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy is set to direct the film and has shared that he is “very thrilled” about the project asserting that they are planning something “very special” for the film. No release date for the film has been revealed as of yet.
