In addition to having the coolest name ever, Benicio Del Toro has proven to be one of the most enigmatically sinister actors around, specializing in those roles where even after the movie’s over, you’re not sure if he was good or bad. That quality makes him a perfect fit for the complicated world of Star Wars villains, which is apparently where he will likely be heading next, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
With much else still being worked out, the second new Star Wars installation, Episode VIII, is already in preproduction, and planned for a May 2017 release. Rian Johnson (Looper, Brick) is being handed the directorial baton from J.J. Abrams on the project, and principal actors from Episode VII – The Force Awakens (Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Daisy Ridley, Oscar Isaac, and John Boyega) are noted to be tied-in with the proceedings. But since the storyline of the upcoming initial release is still very much under wraps, the character that Del Toro has been offered for the following film is currently a mystery. All that’s known right now is that the role, if he wants it, is “likely that of a villain.”
If cast, Del Toro—who won an Oscar for Traffic—would be breaking the precedent set by The Force Awakens of only casting lesser-known actors for the new characters within the franchise—or rather, of publicly casting lesser-known actors. As your attorney, and as evidenced by the recent reveal of Simon Pegg’s quiet involvement, I advise you to prepare for quite a few more surprises to come.
Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens is out Christmas Day.
(via Flavorwire)
