Three Irish actresses are set to steal the show in a new Star Wars series on Disney+.
The series, Andor, which is expected to have two seasons, features Fiona Shaw, Genevieve O’Reilly and Denise Gough in leading roles.
Two-time Olivier award-winning Clare-born actress, Denise Gough is set for a villainous role as imperial officer, Dedra Meero.
Cork actress Fiona Shaw, who is well known for her roles as Petunia Dursley in the Harry Potter film franchise and Carolyn Martens in Killing Eve is also to make her Star Wars debut.
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However, little is known about Fiona Shaw’s role apart from her character’s name being Maarva.
Speaking to Empire Magazine, Shaw said that the series will reflect modern politics.
“Our world is exploding in different places right now, people’s rights are disappearing, and Andor reflects that,” she said. Shaw also described the series as a “scurrilous take on the Trumpian world.”
Dublin-born actress, Genevieve O’Reilly is to reprise her role as Mon Mothma, last seen in Rogue One as the leader of the rebellion. O'Reilly previously starred in ITV's BAFTA-nominated mini-series, The Secret.
On Twitter, fans have reacted with delight at the Irish talents’ involvement.
Fans seem to be divided on the prospect of returning to a politics-heavy Star Wars instalment, with a scene showing O’Reilly’s Mon Mothma in the Senate made famous in the prequels, signifying that return.
Shaw’s reference to Trump has also divided fans.
Star Wars creator, George Lucas, has highlighted in the past that Star Wars has always been heavily influenced by politics, saying that the franchise was inspired by the Vietnam War and Nixon’s Watergate scandal.
The series which is a prequel to the 2016 film, Rogue One, follows Cassian Andor and the building resistance to the empire. The series will have a three-episode premiere on Disney+ beginning 21 September 2022 and also stars Diego Luna and Stellan Skarsgård.
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