After being rumored for the role last week, Collider is now reporting that Gugu Mbatha-Raw has officially signed on for the female lead in Star Wars: Episode VIII. She’ll join Benicio del Toro in the Rian Johnson-directed film, which is set to open in Spring 2017. No word on the actress’ role just yet, but Collider firmly believes that she’s locked in.
With both Concussion and Beauty and the Beast on her upcoming slate, it looks like Mbatha-Raw is finally ready for her much deserved breakout. She impressed tremendously in both Beyond the Lights and Belle, and it was really just a matter of time before she landed a massive role like this.
The actress is also yet another up and coming stars who’s been recruited to the Star Wars universe, as The Force Awakens boasts a cast that includes John Boyega, Felicity Jones and Adam Driver, among others. It’s clear that Disney is going for emerging talent to bring these films to life, and I definitely think that’s a good idea.
Star Wars: Episode VIII opens on May 26, 2017. Tell us, are you happy to hear that Gugu Mbatha-Raw snagged the female lead in the film, or were you rooting for someone else? Sound off below and let us know!