In news we’re sure will be met with the levels of dignity and restraint that come with the addition of any actress to the Star Wars franchise, Variety reports that Keri Russell has joined the cast of Star Wars: Episode IX. The nature of Russell’s role is, of course, unknown, but Variety says that the part “calls for action-heavy fight scenes” that will utilize the “ability to perform tough stunts” Russell has developed on projects like The Americans and Mission: Impossible III. (Just as long as she doesn’t have purple hair, right?)
Speaking of which, Episode IX will mark the reunion of Russell and J.J. Abrams, who directed the aforementioned 2006 spy flick and took over the writing and directing of Episode IX from Colin Trevorrow last fall. The film, which reportedly has two roles yet to be filled, is set to start production at the end of the month.