Unknown actress becomes frontrunner for female lead in Star Wars

British acting newcomer Maisie Richardson-Sellers has become the frontrunner to take on a leading role in the highly-anticipated Star Wars sequel, according to multiple reports. The stage actress is allegedly preparing to make her movie debut in J.J. Abrams’ Star Wars: Episode VII as a descendant of Obi-Wan Kenobi, a character previously played onscreen by Sir Alec Guinness in the original trilogy and Ewan McGregor in the prequel films.
Casting details for the forthcoming sci-fi movie, which has already begun production, have been shrouded in secrecy, but Girls star Adam Driver is said to be portraying the lead villain, while fellow newcomers Jesse Plemons, John Boyega, Ed Speleers and Matthew James Thomas have also been linked to key roles in the project, and Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o, Saoirse Ronan and Michael B. Jordan have all met with Abrams to discuss parts.
The news of Richardson-Sellers’ involvement in the new Star Wars film comes days after towering Brit Peter Mayhew was confirmed to reprise his role as Chewbacca. Veteran actress Carrie Fisher will also return as Princess Leia, although it is still unclear if Harrison Ford and Mark Hamill will join the original reunion in their roles as Han Solo and Luke Skywalker.
The latest Star Wars epic is scheduled for release in December, 2015.