“True Detective: Nightland” actress Jodie Foster revealed that she played Princess Leia in the original “Star Wars” movies in the 1970s. Her acceptance of the role could significantly change the course of this beloved story.
Via The Hollywood Reporter, the actress spoke on NBC’s “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” about turning down what would become one of the most iconic roles in film history. “They wanted a young Princess Leia, but I had a conflict,” she said. “I was doing a Disney movie and I just didn’t want to quit a Disney movie because I was already under contract.” She was referring to the Disney production. Probably 1976’s Freaky Friday.
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THR’s article notes that casting Foster in the role instead of Carrie Fisher would have changed the story quite a bit, since she was more of a pre-teen at the time of filming A New Hope. However, as the original trilogy of films progressed, its impact would become even wider. For example, even if Luke and Leia were revealed to be siblings, the “twin twist” wouldn’t exist. Additionally, the character dynamic between the two would be very different, including no silly little kiss in The Empire Strikes Back . Also, there may not have been a romantic relationship with Han Solo at that time.
Of course, the domino effect will only get bigger as Lucas starts developing prequels and more. This is just a “what if” scenario in our minds, but sometimes it’s fun to wonder what would happen due to very small changes. It’s also yet another reminder of how many elements of the original Star Wars films were barely in place. In a way, the Disney-backed sequel also stays true to the chaotic creative process of the original trilogy.
Now that the Skywalker Saga is complete, what’s next for Star Wars? A lot, and not just on Disney+, as Lucasfilm just announced a The Mandalorian vs. Grogu movie and continues to develop one starring Daisy Ridley 9 years later Movie.
