Summary
Daisy Ridley is set to return to the galaxy far away. However, it seems that there might be a delay becauseStar Wars: New Jedi Orderis reportedly on hold for the second time.
Ridley debuted as Rey in theStar Warsfranchise in the 2015 movieStar Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens. Rey is a scavenger from the desert planet Jakku. At the time, Ridley was relatively unknown. However, fans loved her performance for its emotional depth and strength. Ridley reprised her role in two more films,The Last Jedi(2017) andThe Rise of Skywalker(2019). Her fourth entry in the franchise is the upcomingNew Jedi Orderwith Sharmeen Obaid‑Chinoy as the director. Ridley’s return was announced atStar WarsCelebration in April 2023. However, there has been no definite update about the movie. An entertainment insider recently shared disappointing news about the film.
Although Ridley’s return will be delayed, her comeback is inevitable. Several sources told The Hollywood Reporter in November 2024 that she is significant in the franchise. “She is the most valuable cinematic asset,” the source toldTHR, adding, “Maybe the only one,Star Warshas right now.” So, there’s no chance they will move forward without her. Earlier this year, she was asked about the progress of herStar Warsfilm, particularly when they would start filming. However, she shared a disappointing response, saying, “I don’t know.”
The delay of Ridley’sStar Wars: New Jedi Orderis disappointing but not totally surprising. Lucasfilm has a history of development troubles. For instance, they shelved Patty Jenkin’sRogue Squadron.Also, Rian Johnson’sStar Warstrilogy, which was announced in 2017, is still in talks nearly a decade later. TheNew Jedi Order’s delay aligns with their inconsistent project follow-through. Also, the filmlost its previous writer, Steven Knight(Peaky Blinders), in 2024 after the latter decided to depart from the project. Ridley’sStar Warsflick was left without a scribe for months. However,George Nolfil was announced as the new scriptwriterearly this year. Lucasfilm probably decided to focus on more established or already-in-production projects likeThe Mandalorian & Grogumovie (2026) and James Mangold’sDawn of the Jedifilm. The delay is not necessarily a bad sign. However, since Lucasfilm also has a history of shelving projects, we don’t know for sure. However, one thing is certain: rushing the film could only result in a weaker reception, which for sure is something Lucasfilm would agree with.
