Reportedly, Disney in currently in talks with Benicio Del Toro to star as a villain in Star Wars Episode 8.
This is according to an exclusive report from The Wrap. Discussions are underway, although nothing has been signed yet. Del Toro is favored by both Disney and Lucasfilm.
The Wrap tried to get confirmation from Disney, but they chose not to comment on the subject. Heroic Hollywood’s Umberto Gonzalez noted on Twitter Joaquin Phoenix already turned down the role.
It’s interesting to note Disney is going after an actor like Del Toro for the villain role in Star Wars Episode 8. This means the role could be substantial as both Del Toro and Phoenix are established actors.
We know Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) is the main villain in Star Wars 7: The Force Awakens. It has not been officially confirmed yet if Driver will be back in Star Wars Episode 8.
Del Toro was already a part of the Disney family as he starred as The Collector in Guardians of the Galaxy. Although this was only a small role and he’s not confirmed to be starring in the sequel for that movie.
Star Wars Episode 8 comes out May 26, 2017. It will star John Boyega, Daisy Ridley and Oscar Isaac.
