The cast has been released for the upcoming Star Wars: Episode IX . According to StarWars.com, the movie will begin filming at London’s Pinewood Studios on August 1, 2018. J.J. Abrams will return to direct the final installment of the Skywalker saga, with a script by Abrams and co-writer Chris Terrio. The biggest announcement by far was the return of Leia Organa once again played by Carrie Fisher, using previously unreleased footage shot for Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Another big surprise is the return of Mark Hamill to the role of Luke Skywalker. Probably much more blue & see through than we're used to. Other returning cast members also announced include Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong’o, Domhnall Gleeson, Kelly Marie Tran, Joonas Suotamo, Billie Lourd, Anthony Daniels, and Billy Dee Williams, who will reprise his iconic role as Lando Calrissian. I'm absolutely giddy with excitement right now. I had remembered a throwaway comment about unused Leia footage, & I've been waiting to see how they were going to handle the unfortunate demise of Carrie Fisher. Hopefully they've got enough footage to really give the character a real worthy send off. Absolutely love the idea of a Luke force ghost. It just seems like the natural thing to do with the character next. Obviously I'm excited for Lando's return. I've mentioned before, he's one of my favorite side characters. Even though he'd probably be pretty upset I see him as a side character. As for the rest of the cast, it's no surprise they're all returning. They're far from finished. Worried about the JJ thing. Not because of JJ himself, I just hope the decision isn't due to the mixed thoughts on The Last Jedi . I dug that one, but mainly I hope they don't injure themselves trying to backpedal. Anyway, yay!!! Carrie Fisher & Mark Hamill! What ya think? Awaiting their return as much as I am? Any theories? Put it in the comments, like, & share.