Carrie Fisher had wrapped filming “Star Wars: Episode VIII” before her death, TheWrap has learned.
The actress reprised her role as Princess Leia in director Rian Johnson’s “Episode VIII,” which the official “Star Wars” Twitter account tweeted had wrapped production back in July. The film is due in theaters on December 15, 2017.
The “Star Wars” films sometimes involve reshoots and re-looping — sometimes extensive ones, as was the case with the new “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” — an individual with knowledge of the production said that Fisher had completely finished her scenes on the new film.
However, it’s unknown how Fisher’s death might impact future installments in the blockbuster franchise and whether Leia, a character Fisher originated in 1977’s “Star Wars,” was expected to play a significant role in “Episode IX” that may now need to be reassessed.
Representatives for the studio and for Lucasfilm have not responded to requests for comment.
Fisher died Tuesday after suffering a heart attack on a plane from London to Los Angeles on Dec. 23. After she was taken to UCLA Medical Center for emergency treatment, she was reported to be in stable condition over the weekend.
Final slate of the final shot. VIII is officially wrapped. Cannot wait to share it with you all! –@rianjohnson pic.twitter.com/l4Apk0Ro4i
— Star Wars (@starwars) July 22, 2016
Fisher made her big screen debut in “Shampoo” (1970) with Warren Beatty, Goldie Hawn and Julie Christie. In 1977, she won the role that would make her internationally famous in “Star Wars,” as the revolutionary princess of the planet Alderaan.
Following starring roles in “Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi,” Fisher had a string of small or guest parts such as “Scream 3,” “Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back,” “These Old Broads,” “Sex and the City” and “Entourage.” She most recently starred in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”