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Returning Darth Vader Rumoured To Have Been Recast In Star Wars: Rogue One

It’s looking increasingly likely that Darth Vader will return to the big screen this year in ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’, following a new report claiming the character has been recast.

LucasFilm has yet to confirm Vader’s presence in the film, but according to a fresh rumour, scenes have been shot with British actor Spencer Wilding under the iconic helmet.

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Don’t worry though, it’s still believed that James Earl Jones will supply the iconic voice. According to Flickering Myth, Wilding is only replacing the on-set body, previously provided by David Prowse.

Wilding is primarily a stunt actor who has credits in ‘Batman Begins’, ‘Wrath of the Titans’ and most notably in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ as the alien who steals Peter Quill’s cassette player.

Vader’s return has been the subject of great speculation given the placement of 'Rogue One’ in the 'Star Wars’ timeline. It takes place just before the events of the original film and concerns the mission to steal the Death Star’s plans.

No, it doesn’t include Bothan Spies, you’re thinking of the second Death Star.

Vader may have been glimpsed in the recent first trailer. One shot (above) shows a black, cloaked figure in a room with familiar Royal Guards - the kind that were seen in 'Return of the Jedi’ flanking Vader’s master, Emperor Palpatine.

As mentioned there has been no confirmation either way as to whether Vader - or Boba Fett for that matter - will appear in the film, but the setting presents the perfect opportunity to bring him back and it’s unlikely Disney or LucasFilm would pass that chance up.

The nature of or size of the role is unknown of course, but Vader likely won’t be the primary antagonist - that role appears to have gone to Ben Mendelsohn and his excellent white Imperial uniform.

'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’ will be released on 16 December 2016.

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Picture Credits: LucasFilm / Marvel Studios