The first look at Maz Kanata's (Lupita Nyong'o) return in "Star Wars: Episode VIII" has been revealed.
Director Rian Johnson shared an on-set photo of the former pirate and smuggler's face on two large monitors. An actor, presumed to be Nyong'o, is seen in the middle of both screens, wearing a motion-capture suit.
In "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," Maz Kanata tried to give the long-missing lightsaber of Luke Skywalker to Rey (Daisy Ridley). But it was not revealed how the tavern keeper managed to get hold of the weapon in the first place. Her fate was also left in jeopardy after her interstellar tavern was attacked by the First Order. These plot points could be discussed in the next installment of the epic "Star Wars" saga.
Meanwhile, a source reportedly told The Sun that "Bottom" star Ade Edmondson will join the cast of "Star Wars: Episode VIII."
The British comedian was reportedly tapped by J.J. Abrams to appear in the movie.
"While J.J. Abrams isn't directing, he is still heavily involved and he is really keen on British talent," the source revealed. However, his character is still under wraps.
"His character is top secret, like everything else to do with the film and its plot. But given his old comedy characters, it would make sense for them to give him an eccentric part," the source added.
Edmondson will not be the first British comedian cast in the "Star Wars" franchise since Walt Disney Studios took over the film in 2012. In "The Force Awakens," Simon Pegg from "Shaun of the Dead" joined the cast as Unkar Plutt.
Other stars who will appear in the upcoming "Star Wars" film include Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker, Carrie Fisher as General Leia Organa, Adam Driver as Kylo Ren, John Boyega as Finn, Oscar Isaac as Poe Dameron, Domhnall Gleeson as General Hux, Anthony Daniels as C-3PO, Gwendoline Christie as Captain Phasma and Andy Serkis as Supreme Leader Snoke, as well as Benicio del Toro, Laura Dern, and Kelly Marie Tran in still-unrevealed roles.
"Star Wars: Episode VIII" will premiere on Dec. 15, 2017.
