Carrie Fisher makes memorable final appearance in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi'
LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Carrie Fisher became an essential part of the "Star Wars" universe in 1977, playing Princess Leia. When George Lucas asked her and co-star Mark Hamill about appearing in a new trilogy, beginning with "The Force Awakens," Fisher immediately said, "Yes."
"Later, I said, 'Carrie, poker face! Don't show them how anxious you are,'" Hamill recalled in an interview. "'You know, your agents will kill you.' She said, 'Mark, what kind of parts are there for women over 50 in Hollywood?'
"As usual, she cut right to the heart of the issue," Hamill added. "She even said, 'Is there anything for Billie in it?' -- meaning her daughter -- ever the stage mother."
Fisher's daughter, Billie Lourd, did get a role. And Carrie returned to the blockbuster franchise that made her a superstar. She makes her final appearance as Leia in "The Last Jedi." And besides all the action that audiences will see, those involved say Carrie Fisher is remarkable in the film.
"She gives a really beautiful performance in this movie, and we finished shooting when she passed," said director Rian Johnson. "So we have a really beautiful, complete performance from her. It's very emotional watching it."
"It's really moving," said Daisy Ridley, who plays Rey. "It will for sure be a series of moments."
John Boyega, who plays Finn, agreed. "Those moments have heart," he said. "And for me to articulate it a bit further, I think it's best for you to experience. But there's heart in all of it."
"It's a performance that's filled with such grace and beauty and depth," said Oscar Isaac, who plays Poe. "So beautiful and compassionate and I think it'll be a really wonderful experience for people to see that."
"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" flies into theatres on Friday.
