Missing Skywalker ‘no accident’
In a red-carpet interview, Abrams says Luke Skywalker’s non-appearance in the trailers and poster is deliberate.
These are good questions to be asking. I can’t wait for you to find out the answers. It’s no accident…We were all thrilled that the trailer was seen and embraced, especially [from] people who were saying that they’re not even fans of Star Wars, but they’re interested in seeing this thing now. It’s a testament to all the amazing work that this cast and crew have done.
‘No question’ about reprising role
Hamill states there was no question that he would reprise his role as Luke Skywalker for Star Wars: The Force Awakens. He confirms Fisher will also reprising her role as Princess Leia.
I don’t know if I’m even allowed to tell people I’m in the new movie. What happened was we were at some event that George [Lucas] was at and he asked us through his people to have lunch with him. I said [to my wife, Mary Lou] ‘There’s something big going on,’ and Mary Lou said, ‘Maybe he’s going to do another trilogy.’ And I laughed out loud, because he had specifically told me he would never do another after the prequels…He said, ‘If you don’t wanna be in it we won’t recast, we’ll well write you out.’ I was in a state of shock and tried to keep a poker face. Carrie immediately went, ‘I’m in!’…If I had said no thousands [of fans] would have shown up at my house [like the villagers in Frankenstein.] Not with pitchforks, but lightsabers.
Tribeca Film interview
Lucas is asked about Star Wars trailers by Colbert at the Tribeca Film Festival.
I have seen the first one. I just saw what was on CBS but I’m going to try to look at it. I want to see it on the big screen.
About the film:
Well, you know, I hope it’s successful. I hope they do a great job. I’m excited…I have no idea what they’re doing.
In turn Lucas asks Colbert why he did not take over The Daily Show:
Trevor Noah is a very funny guy. I don’t want to be the guy to take over for Jon Stewart. I worked for Jon Stewart at that show and my memories will always be of him being the keenest, most intelligent . . . the clearest thinker I have ever worked with before and I just don’t want to. I would never get underneath his shadow. For me, someone who doesn’t know him as well . . . might have a better time on that show than I ever would.