J.J. Abrams ("Star Trek," "Lost") is directing "The Force Awakens," the first of a planned three sequels set about 30 years after "Return of the Jedi," the final film of the original trilogy.
New actors cast to the galaxy far, far away include John Boyega, Adam Driver, Lupita Nyong'o, Andy Serkis and Daisy Ridley. They join returning stars Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher, who are reprising their roles.
“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” is set to land in theaters Dec. 18, 2015.
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Lupita Nyong'o
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Lupita Nyong'o was named to the cast of "Star Wars: Episode VII" on June 2. Nyong'o won the best supporting actress Academy Award for her performance in "12 Years a Slave." Click through for more faces from the next chapter of the highly-anticipated science-fiction franchise.
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Gwendoline Christie, known for her role in HBO's "Game of Thrones," was also announced as part of the "Star Wars" cast.
Lucasfilm announced the cast for the highly anticipated "Star Wars VII," including "Girls" star Adam Driver. Driver has been rumored to play a "Star Wars" villain.
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Little is known about newcomer Daisy Ridley, who is set to star in the new "Star Wars" films. She appeared in the second season of "Mr. Selfridge," in which she starred opposite Jeremy Piven as Roxie Starlet. She is rumored to play the daughter of Han Solo and Princess Leia, Jaina Solo.
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Andy Serkis has received BAFTA and Golden Globe nominations for his work, but he is currently best known for his voice work as Gollum in "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" and "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy.
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Swedish actor Max von Sydow is famous for his roles in major films like 'Minority Report," "Three Days of the Condor" and "The Greatest Story Ever Told."
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Irish actor Domhnall Gleeson played Bill Weasley in the "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows."
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British born John Boyega is best known for playing Moses in the science fiction movie "Attack the Block." He will next be seen in "24: Live Another Day."
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Oscar Isaac made headlines recently for his critically acclaimed role in "Inside Llewyn Davis."
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The cast of "Star Wars: Episode VII" gather with director J.J. Abrams (top center, right). Photo: David James/StarWars.com
