Will Carrie Fisher Be In ‘Star Wars: Episode VIII’? LucasFilm Officials Speak Out After Princess Leia Actress’ Death

Carrie Fisher was a staple in the “Star Wars” anthology, appearing for the first time in 1977. She appeared in five of the seven films and made an appearance in “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.” Fisher’s character was slated to appear in “Star Wars: Episode VIII,” set to release in 2017, but the actress’ sudden death has left many fans uncertain of Princess Leia’s fate.

According to TMZ there is no need to fret. Officials at LucasFilm have confirmed that Fisher’s character does appear in “Star Wars: Episode VIII.” The 60-year-old actress is said to have “absolutely wrapped” filming prior to her death on Tuesday. There is no word on how the “Star Wars” franchise will handle Leia’s departure from the franchise as officials told TMZ it was simply too early to tell.

Fisher’s death has elicited an astounding response from fans and members of the franchise alike. Mark Hamill, who starred alongside the actress as Luke Skywalker in the “Star Wars” films, was among the first of her co-stars to react on social media. Not long after news broke he shared a still frame of the two of them together, sharing with followers that he was “devastated.” The heartbreaking message has been shared more than 190,000 times.

A publicist for Billie Lourd, Fisher’s daughter, confirmed the “Star Wars” actress’ passing. In a statement from Simon Halls, he said that Fisher “was loved by the world,” and would be missed. Additionally, Halls thanked fans on behalf of Fisher’s family for sending prayers and well wishes as she fought for her life.

“It is with a very deep sadness that Billie Lourd confirms that her beloved mother Carrie Fisher passed away at 8:55 this morning,” he said (via People). “She was loved by the world and she will be missed profoundly. Our entire family thanks you for your thoughts and prayers.”

Fisher’s death came just four days after she suffered a massive heart attack on a transatlantic flight from London to Los Angeles. The flight was reportedly minutes from reaching its destination when Fisher went into cardiac arrest. Passengers on board performed life saving measures to stabilize Fisher until she was able to be taken from the plane to a local hospital. Her death is said to have been a result of complications from the heart attack she suffered aboard the transatlantic flight.