Remember when the internet exploded with news about 'Star Wars Episode VIII' looking for young actresses to fill the female lead role in the highly anticipated sequel?
The shortlist of actresses included 'Orphan Black' star Tatiana Maslany, Gina Rodriguez of 'Jane The Virgin' as well as Olivia Cooke, who has recently landed a major role in 'Ready Player One.' However, the talks have died down following the announcement that Gugu Mbatha-Raw has been cast in the second installment of the new 'Star Wars' trilogy.
Or have they? According to Jedi News, new speculations are suggesting that Gina Rodriguez could be up for the lead role in 'Star Wars Episode VIII' once again. The rumors are stemming from the fact that 'Star Wars' actor John Boyega and 'Episode VIII' director Rian Johnson have started following the 'Jane The Virgin' star on Twitter, so the news should be taken with a grain of salt. However, it did kickstart another speculation about the lead roles in the sequel.
Is it possible that there will be two female leads in 'Star Wars Episode VIII' and Gugu Mbatha-Raw had been cast in one of the roles? It was previously reported by Latino-Review that the movie is looking to fill two major female roles so the film could still be on the lookout for another actress who could possibly play a villain.
Although it is still unclear whether Gina Rodriguez will be joining the cast of 'Star Wars Episode VIII,' The Wrap has recently been reported that the Golden Globe winner is now in negotiations to appear in the Natalie Portman sci-fi flick 'Annihilation.' The film, which will be the second directorial effort of 'Ex-Machina' helmer Alex Garland, is expected to start filming next spring.
'Star Wars Episode VIII' is scheduled for release on May 26, 2017.
