Daisy Ridley Returns as Rey in Star Wars: New Jedi Order – What We Know So Far

Daisy Ridley's Return to the Star Wars Galaxy: A Look at Star Wars: New Jedi Order

Daisy Ridley, the iconic Rey, is set to reprise her role in the upcoming Star Wars: New Jedi Order, marking a significant return to the beloved franchise. Announced in April 2023, this follows her highly successful performance in the sequel trilogy, a box office phenomenon grossing over $4.4 billion worldwide. While each installment saw a slight dip in revenue, all three films maintained strong critical acclaim, boasting over 90% ratings on Rotten Tomatoes.

Four years after The Rise of Skywalker (2019), Ridley leads a new chapter. But what awaits fans? Let's explore.

Table of Contents

• Behind-the-Scenes Challenges
• A New Era for the Jedi
• Future Possibilities
• Cancelled Star Wars Projects
• Conclusion: A Renewed Hope?

Behind-the-Scenes Challenges

Image: disney.com

The development of New Jedi Order has been far from seamless. While Ridley's return is confirmed, the project has experienced significant behind-the-scenes changes, particularly concerning the writing team. Damon Lindelof and Justin Britt-Gibson initially departed in 2023, followed by Steven Knight in October 2024. Lindelof's subsequent interview with Esquire, stating he was "asked to leave," fueled speculation about the film's creative direction. George Nolfi, known for The Adjustment Bureau and The Bourne Ultimatum, is now attached to write the script.

Currently, Ridley is the only confirmed cast member, although rumors persist about the potential return of John Boyega (Finn), Oscar Isaac (Poe Dameron), and even Adam Driver as Ben Solo—a possibility Driver has denied.

A New Era for the Jedi

Image: disney.com

Set 15 years after The Rise of Skywalker, approximately 50 years post-Battle of Yavin, New Jedi Order showcases a more mature Rey. No longer the young scavenger, she's a seasoned Jedi Master, tasked with the monumental challenge of rebuilding the Jedi Order.

While not officially confirmed, the title strongly suggests the film's core narrative: Rey's efforts to restore the Jedi in a galaxy still recovering from decades of conflict. The film will likely explore the galaxy's reaction to the Jedi's return and Rey's struggle to balance tradition with innovation in her rebuilding efforts.

Future Possibilities

Image: x.com

Lucasfilm has multiple Star Wars projects in development, some currently on hold. A film starring Ryan Gosling, directed by Shawn Levy, is highly anticipated, yet some fans express concern about whether Levy's team fully grasps the franchise's unique lore and mythology. The Star Wars universe's rich history and beloved characters demand a deep understanding, as one fan noted: "Star Wars is not a Marvel movie where you can just play around and have fun. You need to understand the lore, the characters, and the mythos.”

Cancelled Star Wars Projects

The path to New Jedi Order is also marked by projects that didn't make it to the screen.

• David Benioff & D.B. Weiss' Star Wars Trilogy: Initially announced in 2018, this trilogy was cancelled in 2019, possibly due to the controversial ending of their Game of Thrones series.

Image: ensigame.com

• Patty Jenkins' Rogue Squadron: Announced in 2020, this film faced delays and was ultimately shelved in 2023, though Jenkins has since confirmed her continued involvement.

Image: disney.com

• Kevin Feige's Star Wars Movie: Quietly cancelled in early 2023.

image: x.com

• The Acolyte Season 2: Cancelled after its first season due to mixed reviews and lower viewership.

Image: disney.com

Conclusion: A Renewed Hope?

With Ridley's return and a new creative team, Star Wars: New Jedi Order holds immense potential. Success hinges on staying true to the spirit of George Lucas's vision while innovating. Only time will reveal if this new chapter lives up to the legacy of the galaxy far, far away. But one thing is certain: Star Wars is back, and fans are eager for the next epic adventure.

May the Force be with you.