Warning: The following contains possible spoilers for "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."
Recently, fans discovered that "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" would be introducing a new hot shot female pilot character. While we know her name is Jessika Pava and that she idolizes the legendary Luke Skywalker, not much else is known about her beyond that.
However, at San Diego Comic-Con this weekend, director J.J. Abrams was asked if there would be any Asian cast members in "The Force Awakens." Abrams answered that he was committed to diversity and that the film would feature some Asian cast members. As it turns out, the character of Jessika Pava is described as Asian and that means actress Jessica Henwick may be playing the part.
Henwick is a British actress with family roots in Eastern Asia. Fan may know her as Nymeria Sand from this past season of "Game of Thrones." Although there are a handful of other actresses with as of yet uncredited roles in "The Force Awakens," Henwick is the only one to match the description of Jessika Pava's concept art.
Henwick is not the only Asian cast member of the new "Star Wars" film though. Longtime Abrams collaborator Ken Leung is also rumored to be in the movie. Fans probably best know Leung from his role as Miles on Abrams' first hit show, "LOST." He is a veteran actor and a welcome addition to an already impressive cast.
Regardless of who is playing who, it's nice to see a galaxy far, far away infused with some diversity. It's also fun that there is still an air of mystery surrounding "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." Fans will just have to wait until the December 18 release to get all of their answers.
