"Star Wars Rebels" has seen a few cameos of characters from the main films and the previous series "Star Wars: The Clone Wars" and another is coming in season 2 episode 12, titled "A Princess in Lothal." As the title suggests, the episode will focus on the main characters as they meet a young Princess Leia.
According to a report from TV Insider, given that the series takes place a few years prior to "Star Wars: A New Hope," Leia Organa is not yet a commanding officer in the secret rebellion against the Empire. She is still a political figure in the Empire but already has her doubts and reasons to fight the tyrannical government.
"We thought we had an opportunity to show her learning to be a leader, experimenting with the personality that becomes the stronger more resolute character you see in 'A New Hope,'" explained executive producer Dave Filoni. "She doesn't believe in the Empire, but she is acting the part, almost a double agent."
It is also stated that actress Carrie Fisher, who plays her in the films, will not be voicing her for the episode. Instead, Princess Leia Organa will be voiced by Julie Dolan, who voices Princess Leia in the video game "Star Wars: Uprising." It is also confirmed that this will be Leia's only appearance in season 2 but she may appear in future installments of the series.
Leia will be the latest cameo of old characters making an appearance on the show. "Star Wars Rebels" previously brought on Lando Calrissian, Darth Vader, R2-D2, C3PO, Captain Rex and Ahsoka Tano to the show.
According to Filoni, bringing in old characters isn't done just to please the fans but also to serve an important part in the show's story. In this case, it will give insight on how Leia eventually became a central figure of the Rebellion against the Empire.
"Star Wars Rebels" season 2 episode 12 airs this Jan. 20.
