Harrison Ford to co-lead Star Wars: Episode VII alongside three young stars

We all know the original stars of our favorite space opera are back in STAR WARS: EPISODE VII, but sources are confirming that one of the three actors will have a much more substantial role than the others. Jedi News is reporting that an article in the latest Entertainment Weekly states that Harrison Ford's part as Han Solo will be a "co-lead" role alongside the three new stars of the franchise.

This anonymous source could be full of shit, but the news seems to be substantiating rumors we have been hearing for months. Check out the breakdown of the confirmed news below.

– Casting began in earnest in January.

– At press time, several roles have yet to be filled, including a major female lead.

– Michael Arndt's initial script has been significantly overhauled by Abrams and Kasdan, which led to a delay in casting.

– Hamill, Fisher, and Ford had been secured to return for Episode VII before the Disney sale in 2012.

– Hamill, Fisher, and Ford will all have "significant" roles.

– Han Solo is considered a co-lead alongside 3 of the younger actors.

Rumors previously stated that Harrison Ford only agreed to come back if Disney would make another INDIANA JONES movie.  While that is still likely, it also seems that making Han Solo a significant part in STAR WARS: EPISODE VII was part of the rewrites done by J.J. Abrams and Lawrence Kasdan.  How much has been changed and how much truth there is to this news will likely not be revealed until the movie hits theaters next year, but it also seems like everything related to STAR WARS: EPISODE VII has been developing for almost two years now.

Could this also lend creedence to the possibility that Han Solo will be killed off in STAR WARS: EPISODE VII?  I am speculating, but Harrison Ford has not been shy about his age playing a factor in his involvement with a new trilogy.  Could Bad Robot and Lucasfilm be planning to shock audiences and kill Solo off, opening the door for Mark Hamill to take center stage in the eighth film?  That remains to be seen.

STAR WARS: EPISODE VII starring Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew, Kenny Baker, John Boyega, Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, Max Sydow, and Daisy Ridley hits theaters on December 18, 2015.