Star Wars Will Not “Digitally Recreate” Carrie Fisher

Lucasfilm wants to make it clear about the future of their Star Wars movies. In a press release on Friday, Lucasfilm announced that they will not be digitally recreating Carrie Fisher image, likeness or acting performance in future Star Wars movies.

“We want to assure our fans that Lucasfilm has no plans to digitally recreate Carrie Fisher’s performance as Princess or General Leia Organa,” Lucasfilm explained.

“Carrie Fisher was, is, and always will be a part of the Lucasfilm family. She was our princess, our general, and more importantly, our friend. We are still hurting from her loss,” Lucasfilm added.

Last month, Carrie Fisher died from an apparent stroke. But, following the release of the Star Wars spin-off, Rogue One, controversy was sparked after Carrie Fisher’s character was digitally resurrected in the final moments of the movie. While, Fisher praised the final scene before her death, many fans questioned whether Disney would continue to digitally recreate scenes without Carrie Fisher.

Carrie Fisher Star Wars
Carrie Fisher at the European premiere of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” in Leicester Square, London. December 16, 2015 London, UK Picture: James Smith / Featureflash

In addition, many questioned whether actors should protect their image and likeness to prevent other film studios from digitally resurrecting their likeness in future movies. In a report from Daily Mail, celebrities are contacting attorneys to protect their intellectual property rights to prevent their likeness from being digitally recreated as CGI images in feature films, movies or even commercials.

With that being said, Fisher had completed her scenes on Episode VIII before she passed away. In turn, this announcement by Lucasfilm means that either Fisher’s character will no longer appear in future movies or, casting directors will be looking for an actress to replace Fisher.

It is worth noting that Disney cherishes their leading lady who unfortunately passed away. In the final parts of their press release Lucasfilm added, “We cherish her memory and legacy as Princess Leia, and will always strive to honor everything she gave to Star Wars.”