Star Wars Episode 9 cast: Is Carrie Fisher in Star Wars Episode IX as Leia?

Carrie Fisher is one of the most beloved actresses in any galaxy, near and far away.

Her role as Leia in the Star Wars franchise solidified her as one of the greats, while her openness about mental health, addiction, and what it’s like being a woman in Hollywood made her a lauded feminist and advocate.

Whether Fisher would appear in Star Wars Episode IX was a topic of deliberation for many a fan, but now there is an answer.

Is Carrie Fisher in Star Wars Episode IX?

Yes.

According to the horse’s mouth itself, StarWars.com, the inimitable general and Princess Leia Organa will again be played by Carrie Fisher.

How, you might ask, when using CGI (as in Rogue One, where CGI was used to create a young Leia from A New Hope) had already been rejected.

Starwars.com clarified production of Episode 9 will use previously unreleased footage shot for Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

“We desperately loved Carrie Fisher,” said JJ Abrams, director of The Force Awakens and the upcoming Episode IX.

“Finding a truly satisfying conclusion to the Skywalker saga without her eluded us.

“We were never going to recast, or use a CG character,” Abrams explained.

“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.”

This news may come as a salve to the many fans who were left in grief after Fisher’s death.

However Abrams and Lucasfilm treat Leia’s character arc in Episode IX, fans can expect a heartfelt, respectful, and fitting send-off for the character Fisher made famous.

JJ Abrams has co-written the screenplay for Episode IX with Chris Terrio.

Terrio is known for his work on Justice League and Argo, starring Ben Affleck.

John Williams, the award-winning composer will return to compose the music for the final trilogy instalment.

Star Wars Episode IX is in cinemas Thursday, December 19 2019.