Mark Hamill wanted everybody from theStar Warsuniverse to be inThe Rise of Skywalker. That’s a nice thought, but it would be nearly impossible to pull off, especially for the last movie in the sequel trilogy. With that being said, the Luke Skywalker actor is extremely excited that Billy Dee Williams is back as Lando Calrissian in the highly anticipated movie. Hamill had this to say.
“I’m so glad Billy Dee is in the final installment, because he deserves it. I thought, ‘Anybody that’s still around - no matter how prominent or obscure - should come back.’ I would love that.”
Out of everybody, Mark Hamill is glad that Billy Dee Williams was finally able to return to theStar Warsfranchise on the big screen.The Rise of Skywalkerpromotional footage has teasedLando’s returnand he’s back in the cockpit of his old beloved ship, which landed in the hands ofHan Solo. There are expected to be some more cameos and surprises, but Hamill believes Williams deserves it most. He explains.
“But especially Billy Dee. We were unknowns when we were cast, and when they cast Billy Dee inEmpire, he was like a big movie star! He’s just the smoothest [person]. He’s almost like an old school, 1930’s matinee idol. He’s just a really wonderful guy and fun to be around. And he saved my life inEmpire, so I owe him that.”
Carrie Fisher sadly passed away at the end of 2016, but she was able to be included inThe Rise of Skywalker. J.J. Abrams and Lucasfilm were able to take unused footage from 2015’sThe Force Awakensto continue her story in the final installment of the Skywalker Saga. Elsewhere, it is believedWarwick Davis is back as the iconic Ewok Wicketin the movie, thanks to a behind-the-scenes featurette that was released recently. Sadly, Peter Mayhew and Kenny Baker are not included in the movie.
As for other returning characters inThe Rise of Skywalker, Yoda pretty much has to make an appearance, even though he showed up inThe Last Jedi. Yoda is an integral part of the Skywalker story and it would seem odd if he wasn’t at least seen in a brief cameo. Anakin Skywalker is the other character who has been heavily rumored over the past several months, which also makes sense, though it has not been officially confirmed. Even Han Solo has been rumored to return, but could that really happen?
The Rise of Skywalkerheld its world premiere in Hollywood last night, which was broadcast online forStar Warsfans to see. The cast and crew of the movie hit the red carpet, along with a ton of special guests. It’s the end of an era, though Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy says this won’t be the last we see of some of the sequel trilogy characters. Maybe the Porgs are getting their own Disney+ series. The interview with Mark Hamill can be seen below, thanks to the Mulderville YouTube channel.
