Star Wars nerds, this is your time – the full cast of J.J. Abrams’ Episode VII has been announced and, while some suspicions were confirmed, there are a few new faces to look forward to. The golden trio of Carrie Fischer, Harrison Ford and Mark Hammill will return in full for Episode VII, so fans who grew up with Star Wars have that to look forward to, at the very least. At the same time, there are some very, very new actors – as in people with acting credits in the single digits.

JJ Abrams
Following the casting announcement, JJ Abrams has attracted some online criticism for the lack of diversity.

 

New actors to the Star Wars franchise include John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, and Max von Sydow, the announcement said, according to CNN.

Probably the best news comes in the form of the supporting cast. Anthony Daniels and Kenny Baker will be returning as the most beloved robots in cinema history C3PO and R2-D2. Meanwhile, Luke’s lovable Wookiee companion Chewbacca will once again be played to perfection by Peter Mayhew.

More: Gary Oldman Confirms Star Wars: Episode 7 Rumor: Best One Yet?

More: Why Chewbacca HAS To Return For Star Wars: Episode VII

 

"We are so excited to finally share the cast of Star Wars: Episode VII, " director J.J. Abrams said. "It is both thrilling and surreal to watch the beloved original cast and these brilliant new performers come together to bring this world to life, once again. We start shooting in a couple of weeks, and everyone is doing their best to make the fans proud."

 

Episode VII’s release date is set for December 18, 2015.

Star Wars
Filming is already underway in London.