'Star Wars' Episode 9: Lucasfilm Reveals Whether They'll Digitize Carrie Fisher As Leia [VIDEO]
The late Carrie Fisher won't be digitally recreated in future Star Wars films.
Fisher, who played Princess (later General) Leia in the Star Wars film franchise, died on Dec. 27, after completing production on the upcoming Episode VIII. After her death, there were rumors that Lucasfilm might try to digitally recreate her for future films, but such is not the case.
"We don't normally respond to fan or press speculation, but there is a rumor circulating that we would like to address," Lucasfilm wrote in a new statement on the Star Wars website. "We want to assure our fans that Lucasfilm has no plans to digitally recreate Carrie Fisher's performance as Princess or General Leia Organa."
The statement went on to explain that they are still grieving the loss of such an iconic actress.
"Carrie Fisher was, is, and always will be a part of the Lucasfilm family. She was our princess, our general, and more importantly, our friend," they wrote. "We are still hurting from her loss. We cherish her memory and legacy as Princess Leia, and will always strive to honor everything she gave to 'Star Wars'."
Fisher's last film performance will be in Star Wars: Episode VIII, fitting considering the actress shot to superstardom with her role as Princess Leia in the 1977 film. Other stars include Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker, Adam Driver as Kylo Ren, Daisy Ridley as Rey, John Boyega as Finn, Oscar Isaac as Poe Dameron, Lupita Nyong'o as Maz Kanata, Domhnall Gleeson as General Hux, Anthony Daniels as C-3PO, Gwendoline Christie as Captain Phasma, Andy Serkis as Supreme Leader Snoke and unannounced roles for Benicio del Toro, Laura Dern and Kelly Marie Tran.
Star Wars: Episode VIII is scheduled for release in theaters on Dec. 15.
The ninth film in the franchise will begin shooting in 2018, with a release date set for May 23, 2019.
