Geekery: Episode IX will Include Lando Calrissian
It’s been confirmed: we’ll be seeing more capes in the next Star Wars movie.
Star Wars: Episode IX starts filming in the next few weeks, and news of the cast is being released slowly. There’s been some whispers about Billy Dee Williams joining the list due to his exit from a convention. THR has finally been able to confirm that he will be returning to the galaxy far, far away after a rather long absence. He’s reprised the character of Lando for video games and animated series over the years, but this is the first time we’ll see him don a cape on the big screen in a little over 35 years. There is no word on how large of a role he’ll play in the story just yet.
The final piece in the new trilogy is being directed by J.J. Abrams with a script is by Abrams and Chris Terrio (Oscar winner for Argo). Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, and Adam Driver will be returning to the screen. Keri Russell has also been confirmed as a new cast member, but her character has yet to be revealed.
This movie is starting off on rocky footing after lower than expected box office returns and not so great reviews of The Last Jedi and Solo; which has led to calls from one of the franchise’s stars to slow down production of new movies. There’s a lot riding on this, and not just revenue.
Star Wars: Episode IX opens December 20, 2019.
