Star Wars Episode VII Cast Revealed!

A day normally associated with such a household name of the Science-Fiction genre. It’s to some surprise that such huge news wasn’t revealed on May The 4th Be With You. Yet after such fierce speculation and rumours with a whole host of names linked, J.J Abrams along with Disney and Lucasfilm have confirmed its cast for ‘Star Wars Episode VII’.

Set to grace the big screen in December of next year, its ensemble is brimming with past characters and exciting new additions. It has been on the cards for many a month, yet it can be finally confirmed that the trio consisting of Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher will all be returning to the series. Reprising the roles of Han Solo, Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker, it will be their first ‘Star Wars’ appearances in 32 years.

He was widely tipped to be the villain of the piece and whilst such definition of his character remains unknown, star of critically acclaimed TV show ‘Girls’ Adam Driver is officially involved. Elsewhere, many of the newbies were hardly in the running beforehand reinforcing Abrams’ playful knack for mystery. Reuniting with Driver after their performances in The Coen Brothers’ ‘Inside Llewyn Davis’, Oscar Isaac is joining the franchise along with legendary actor Max Von Sydow.

Andy Serkis just can’t resist joining another high-profile cinematic commodity. A technical marvel with his stunning creations of Gollum in Lord Of The Rings and Caesar in Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes, his involvement is arguably Abrams’ most astute move. Elsewhere, we have much representation from a British perspective, as Domhnall Gleeson (soon to be seen in Frank) and relative newcomers to the big screen, Attack The Block’s John Boyega and Daisy Ridley (Mr Selfridge) making their debuts in such a world.

Director Abrams is clearly relishing taking hold and breathing new life into the franchise after the lack of love towards George Lucas’ prequels. In a statement:

‘We are so excited to finally share the cast of Star Wars: Episode VII. It is both thrilling and surreal to watch the beloved original cast and these brilliant new performers come together to bring this world to life, once again’.

What are your thoughts on the casting decisions made by Abrams? Be sure to leave us a comment with your thoughts.