Rogue One: A Star Wars Story has been surrounded in rumours and speculation ever since word hit about the film's extensive reshoots. One of the biggest rumours surrounding the nature of these reshoots was that at least part of the time was used to shoot a cameo for the new Han Solo, portrayed by Alden Ehrenreich.
While attending Star Wars Celebration in London, Rogue One director Gareth Edwards and Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy were questioned on Ehrenreich's possible presence in the film, and Edwards was pretty definitive with his answer. “I’m not sure if I’m allowed to do this, but I think I should…. Han Solo’s not in the movie.” It seems we can scratch off the possibility of meeting the new Han Solo this December, though the spin-off film featuring the character is set for release in 2018.
Another rumour surrounding
Rogue One was that it ends precisely ten minutes before
A New Hope begins. Kennedy didn't outright deny this rumour, but did have something to say on the matter.
“I love that it has been reduced to that precise amount. It definitely leads into New Hope, that is very intentional, but it is a completely new and separate set of characters and it is a story that sits outside of anything anyone would necessarily know in New Hope.”
Kennedy also addressed the rumour of Hayden Christensen returning to physically portray Darth Vader, which ended up being another swift denial.
“No. That is not true. I can confirm that. He is not [in Rogue One].” Of course, this wouldn't rule out Christensen returning to the role in any future installments, but it's probably safe to say that fans will be pleased as long as they hear James Earl Jones' intimidating voice.
About The Author:
Matt is a graduate of the Ryerson University School of Journalism, and has been a fan of superheroes since he picked up his first comic book issue as a child. While he works as a professional musician, Matt has a massive passion for comic books, films and heroes, along with participating in discussion and debate with the CBM community.