Gugu Mbatha-Raw

by: S. Scott Stanikmas

After just being announced as a top contender for Lionsgate’s Robin Hood, actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw has just been announced as being a contender for a major role in Star Wars Episode VIII.

Mbatha-Raw joins the list that includes Tatiana Maslany, Olivia Cooke and Gina Rodriguez that was reported a few weeks ago.

This news comes from the good folks at Latino Review. But that’s not all. Apparently there’s not one but TWO major female roles up for grabs and they both share the same shortlist. Sure this means that two actresses won’t get a part in the film but it does double each one’s odds of potentially being cast.

Cooke may not still be in the running as she recently signed on for Ready Player One which may have filming conflicts with the newest Star Wars film. And Mbatha-Raw may have the same problems. If she signs up for the Robin Hood film that may put her out of the running for this film as well.

Not much is known about the plot for Episode VIII but we do know that Benicio del Toro has signed to maybe be the villain and that John Boyega will continue his role from The Force Awakens.

Rian Johnson is set to write and direct Star Wars Episode VIII which will hit theaters on May 26, 2017.