It’s a whole new Regina on the upcoming seventh season of “Once Upon a Time.”
Lana Parrilla announced at the Television Critics Association’s summer press tour over the weekend that she will no longer be playing politician Regina Mills for the rebooted run of the ABC drama. However, she remained mum on what her character’s new moniker actually is.
However, the word is now out: Parilla’s Evil Queen character will be named Roni.
The name isn’t the only difference for the character this season, as Parrilla pointed out during the TCA session that her counterpart will be embracing an edgier side.
“I’m no longer in pantsuits — I’m in denim and rock T-shirts,” the actress said. “When we meet her, this other version of Regina, she’s working in a bar. She’s a little rough around the edges.”
“She’s no longer in charge,” Parrilla continued. “This version of Regina is something else. I’m still discovering her. I think we’re all still discovering who she is — it’s refreshing.”
ABC announced in May that Season 7 will be without such core cast members as Ginnifer Goodwin (Snow), Josh Dallas (Charming) and Jennifer Morrison (Emma).
“Once Upon a Time” returns Oct. 6 for Season 7 on ABC.