Rumor: Gugu Mbatha-Raw lands role in Star Wars: Episode VIII

Last Updated on August 2, 2021

Even though the release of STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS is still a little over two months away, we've already been getting news for several of the next films in the new Star Wars saga for months; that's amazing. We're living the Star Wars dream, folks. Casting for STAR WARS: EPISODE VIII is still underway and, according to Collider, a new major role may have just been cast.

Collider reports that Gugu Mbatha-Raw (JUPITER ASCENDING) will be joining the cast of STAR WARS: EPISODE VIII in an unspecified role, (obviously). The last we heard of casting for Rian Johnson's Star Wars film had Tatiana Maslany (Orphan Black), Olivia Cooke (Bate's Motel), and Gina Rodriguez (Jane the Virgin) on the shortlist for a lead in the film. With Maslany in talks to join Jake Gyllenhaal in the Boston Marathon bombing drama, STRONGER, it's possible that she's no longer in running; although it's also possible that these actresses are in the running for more than one role. Gugu Mbatha-Raw's casting isn't a sure thing just yet, so until we hear an official announcement from Disney/Lucasfilm, lets hold off on the celebration. Yub nub.

STAR WARS: EPISODE VIII opens on May 26, 2017.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw in BEYOND THE LIGHTS.