Long, long ago in a galaxy far, far away, there was an actor who played one of the most famous science-fiction characters of all time in one of the world’s most popular franchise. And then he joined the Star Wars universe. That’s right, former-Doctor Matt Smith is stepping out of the TARDIS’s shadow and into the still untitled Star Wars: Episode IX.
Smith, fresh off his take on Prince Philip in The Crown, is joining the cast of the upcoming film in a currently unnamed, but key, role. The f theory is, that with his dashing good looks and history of playing the sci-fi hero, that Smith should be a part of the dark side, either as a Sith Lord (as there are always supposed to be two) or as a member of the First Order. Either way, fans are stoked to see him taking on this exciting new project.
Smith isn’t the only big name star joining the cast. Keri Russell, of The Americans fame, is also said to be playing an important role in the last of the new Star Wars trilogy, though we still don’t know who. Other newcomers to the film include Richard E. Grant, Dominic Monaghan, and Naomi Ackie. Billy Dee Williams will also be joining the cast, reprising his role as Lando Calrissian. And though Carrie Fischer sadly passed away before this film went into production, Director J.J. Abrams will include her as Leia Organa by using previously shot footage.
Star Wars: Episode IX is set to premiere on December 20, 2019.
