It’s been nearly 40 years since Fisher first played Leia in the 'Star Wars' franchise.
With the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens just weeks away, Carrie Fisher, aka Princess Leia, is getting reflective on her character’s history and how much things have changed since she first appeared on screen in 1977. But while Fisher might not agree with Leia ‘slave’ action figures being banned, she does admit that at times her character was too much of a damsel in distress in the original trilogy.
Carrie Fisher in Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
“I would have liked that lightsaber moment, very much yes. But there was no precedent (at the time),” Fisher told the New York Daily News when asked about Leia’s lack of heroic moment in the original films.
But in The Force Awakens, fans have been promised more girl power, and Fisher’s character has even been promoted to General status. “I didn’t even know about that title until last week. I was a senator in the last one, so what the f--k?,” Fisher added.
More: Carrie Fisher Reveals She Was Told To Lose 35 Lbs In Preparation For New Star Wars Movie
“But it’s important to the kids. It’s taking a male-dominated title and putting it on a female, so it’s a positive empowering thing that you’re proud of.” Alongside Leia, the film also features a new heroine, scavenger Rey, played by Daisy Ridley.
However Fisher doesn’t agree with the recent debate about wether there should no longer be merchandise featuring Leia in her Return of the Jedi bikini and chains. In July a father was left felling furious when he saw the action figure at a toy story, saying it was inappropriate for children.
Speaking to the Wall Street Journal, Fisher commented: “The father who flipped out about it, “What am I going to tell my kid about why she’s in that outfit?” Tell them that a giant slug captured me and forced me to wear that stupid outfit, and then I killed him because I didn’t like it. And then I took it off. Backstage.”
When asked if there ever a point where she considered not returning for the new movie Fisher said, ‘never.’ "I’ve been this character for 40 years, why would I not? Because I’m going to be associated with Princess Leia more? There is no 'more'."
"And I’m a female working in show business, where, if you’re famous, you have a career until you’re 45, maybe. Maybe. And that’s about 15 people," the 59 year old added. Star Wars: The Force Awakens hits US and UK cinemas on December 18th.
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