Star Wars Celebration is in full swing and the panel that everyone has been waiting for is finally here.
During the Star Wars: Episode IX panel, fans were introduced to a brand new character called Jannah, who’ll be played by Naomi Ackie. A powerhouse actress who gained rave reviews for her brilliant turn in Lady Macbeth (which is a movie that is definitely not based on the Shakespeare play), she seems to be a key part of the newest film, and she looks hella cool. She also may or may not be Lando Calrissian’s daughter.
Naomi Ackie: “her name is Jannah. All I can say is the original group are going on this epic adventure and I’m so excited about where Jannah crosses paths with them.” Colbert asks if she’s Lando’s daughter. “Lando is a very charming man. He could have daughters everywhere!” pic.twitter.com/THlEF9TlHw
— Empire Magazine (@empiremagazine) April 12, 2019
We also got our first look at Lando himself, still rocking a his very cool yellow and blue cape and shirt combo, and fans were incredibly happy to see the Original Trilogy star return to the hallowed halls of the Millennium Falcon. He was effusive about the experience of creating Episode IX, calling it a “highlight” of his expansive career.
billy dee said he didn’t have to find lando because lando never left him. pic.twitter.com/u2ScZVxyWT
— lindsey romain @ swcc (@lindseyromain) April 12, 2019
It was exciting to see the new and old generations cross over as a classic character returned and a brand new one was introduced. It’s also another vital moment in Lucasfilm’s efforts to diversify the world of Star Wars, as it seems like Jannah will be a main cast member, making her the first black woman lead in a live action film in the franchise.
There was also a very cute new droid addition:
New droid ! I think it’s D-0? Dio ? Deeeeeooohhh? One of those is probably right pic.twitter.com/4RvEwaW9TH
— Ash Crossan @ SWCC (@AshCrossan) April 12, 2019
We’re updating this piece live as the panel continues so keep your eyes peeled for updates from the galaxy far, far away.
Images: Lucasfilm/Disney