Back in 2016, fans of Star Wars were devastated to learn that Carrie Fisher, who was probably best known for her role as Princess Leia, had passed away. There were talks about whether or not she would be included in Star Wars: Episode IX through the use of CGI (as was done in Rogue One), but it was confirmed that she would not be appearing in the movie, CGI or otherwise.
However it turns out that the studios have had a change of heart because according to the official Star Wars website, which announced the cast of Episode IX, it has been confirmed that Fisher will be making an appearance in the movie where her appearance will be through unused footage shot previously.
According to J.J. Abrams, “We desperately loved Carrie Fisher. Finding a truly satisfying conclusion to the Skywalker saga without her eluded us. We were never going to recast, or use a CG character. With the support and blessing from her daughter, Billie, we have found a way to honor Carrie’s legacy and role as Leia in Episode IX by using unseen footage we shot together in Episode VII.”
Speaking to the New York Daily News, Fisher’s brother Todd Fisher said, “She’s as much a part of it as anything and I think her presence now is even more powerful than it was, like Obi Wan — when the saber cuts him down he becomes more powerful. I feel like that’s what’s happened with Carrie. I think the legacy should continue.” Star Wars: Episode IX is currently set for a release for the 20th of December, 2019 and will conclude the current trilogy’s and the overarching story.