Jodie Foster’s Missed Opportunity: Losing the Role of Princess Leia
Jodie Foster Opens Up About Missing Out on Princess Leia Role in Star Wars
Two-time Oscar-winning actress Jodie Foster recently shared some surprising information about her career. While promoting her new Netflix movie “Nyad” and “True Detective: Night Country”, Foster revealed that she was in the running to play Princess Leia in the original Star Wars movie released in 1977. The role ultimately went to Carrie Fisher, who became iconic for her portrayal of the character.
During an appearance on Jimmy Fallon’s The Tonight Show, Foster explained why she missed out on the opportunity to play Princess Leia. She said, “Yes. I was, yes. They wanted a younger Princess Leia, but I had a disagreement. I was shooting a Disney movie and I didn’t want to back out of the Disney movie because I was already under contract. So I didn’t do it. And they did a great job. I don’t know how good I would be.”
It’s interesting to note that at the time, Foster was not even 15 years old, while Fisher was 20. The irony is that Disney, which caused Foster to miss out on the role, now owns Lucasfilm and therefore also owns the Star Wars franchise.
Foster’s revelation sparked a discussion about the potential of her playing Princess Leia. While Foster is undoubtedly a talented actress, it’s clear that casting Carrie Fisher was the perfect choice. Fisher’s portrayal of Leia not only left a lasting impact on the Star Wars movies but also embodied the strength, spirit, determination, and heart of the character.
Whether in the original trilogy or the controversial sequels, Carrie Fisher’s portrayal of Leia always shone brightly in the vast galaxy of Star Wars. While Foster may have missed out on an opportunity, it’s clear that Fisher’s performance as Princess Leia will forever be remembered as a standout moment in cinematic history.
