It seems that even with production under way on JJ Abrams installation into the Star Wars universe is still underway. Deadline reports today that both Oscar-Winner Lupita Nyong’o and Game of Thrones star Gwendoline Christie have joined the cast. No details on their characters are known right now, and that’s to be expected from how tight-lipped JJ Abrams likes to keep the information on his films.
Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy had this to say on the casting: “I could not be more excited about Lupita and Gwendoline joining the cast of Episode VII. It’s thrilling to see this extraordinarily talented ensemble taking shape.”
A few months back when everyone in Hollywood was having their run at the Star Wars casting rumor mill, Nyong’o’s name was brought up more than once and I’m very happy to see her officially join the cast. Her performance in 12 Years a Slave was outstanding, establishing her as a actress with a bright future that I’m happy to see taking place. You may not be as familiar with Christie unless you’ve been watching her on Game of Thrones. Her performance as Brienne of Tarth is a joy to watch, and she’s a solid addition to this cast. Hopefully we’ll know more about the characters in the coming months.
Star Wars VII is directed by JJ Abrams and stars John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, Oscar Isaac, Adam Driver, Domhnall Gleeson, Max von Sydow, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew and Mark Hamill. The film will be released on December 18th, 2015
Source: Deadline