Star Wars: Episode IXwill begin filming at London’s Pinewood Studios on July 16, 2025.J.J. Abramsreturns to direct the final installment of the Skywalker saga–read that again,final installment of the Skywalker saga–which he co-wrote withChris Terrio. But the bigger story here is the new and returning cast, which not only includes the ever-coolBilly Dee Williamsas the iconic Lando Calrissian, but also returning veteransMark Hamill,Anthony Daniels, and the lateCarrie Fisher. More on those additions in a moment.
Other returning cast members includeDaisy Ridley,Adam Driver,John Boyega,Oscar Isaac,Lupita Nyong’o,Domhnall Gleeson,Kelly Marie Tran,Joonas Suotamo, andBillie Lourd. Also joining the cast ofEpisode IXareNaomi Ackie,Richard E. GrantandKeri Russell, the latter of whom will indeed be joining the film as her deal just closed. ComposerJohn Williams, who has scored every chapter in theStar Warssaga since 1977’sStar Wars: Episode IV -A New Hope, will return to a galaxy far, far away withEpisode IX.
Here’s what Abrams had to say about bringing Fisher back in a posthumous performance of Leia Organa using previously unreleased footage shot forStar Wars: The Force Awakens:
“We desperately loved Carrie Fisher. 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 honor Carrie’s legacy and role as Leia in Episode IX by using unseen footage we shot together in Episode VII.”
Star Wars: Episode IXwill be produced byKathleen Kennedy, J.J. Abrams, andMichelle Rejwan, and executive produced byCallum GreeneandJason McGatlin. The crew includesDan Mindel(Director of Photography),Rick CarterandKevin Jenkins(Co-Production Designers),Michael Kaplan(Costume Designer),Neal Scanlan(Creature and Droid FX),Maryann BrandonandStefan Grube(Editors),Roger Guyett(VFX Supervisor),Tommy Gormley(1st AD), andVictoria Mahoney(2nd Unit Director).
ViaStarWars.com
