Actress Keri Russell and director J.J. Abrams have a long history together. The duo first collaborated on the long-running series “Felicity,” which premiered over 20 years ago, in 1998. Russell was the young actress in the lead and Abrams was a writer-producer that helped create the series. Decades later, they reunite in “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” and according to Russell, she couldn’t be happier.
Speaking to the Associated Press, the actress talked about what she felt after reading the script for the upcoming ‘Star Wars’ film and why the fact that she wears a helmet in the film was something she was super excited about.
As for ‘Rise of the Skywalker,’ the end of the Skywalker Saga was originally to be written and directed by Colin Trevorrow. However, after Lucasfilm wasn’t a fan of his vision for the film, J.J. Abrams was brought aboard to bring it all together. He did this by starting with a brand-new script, with the help of Chris Terrio.
“When I read [Abrams’] script that he wrote I cried,” Russell said. “I mean who knows what it will turn out to be and I hope it remains true to what he originally wanted.”
She added, “He’s not trying to change it to be something else. He really respects what it is.”
Not much is known about the character the Russell will portray in the film. We know the name of the character is Zorri Bliss and she wears a pretty impressive helmet. And according to the actress, the helmet was one of the selling features for the role.
Russell said about the helmet, “I was like, ‘That is my dream job. I can see everyone. No one can see me. Hello. Amazing!’”
We’re guessing that Zorri Bliss toys will fly off the shelves later this year in preparation for the big Skywalker Saga finale.
“Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” will arrive in theaters on December 20.