"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" featured a handful of impressive celebrity cameos. From Daniel Craig to Simon Pegg, practically everyone wanted to be in the highly anticipated saga entry, regardless of how small their cameo was. The same applies to Rian Johnson's "Star Wars: Episode VIII." Already we know that the two princes of England will appear in some minor capacity (pretty impressive when even royalty wants to get in on the action), and now we can add one more name to that list: Tom Hardy
Yes, the "Mad Max: Fury Road" star has been rumored for some time to be appearing in "Star Wars: Episode VIII." Now, confirmation has come down the pipeline that he will indeed be present. As much as we'd like Hardy, who was nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his work in "The Revenant," to be added to the main cast, we know that's not in the cards.
Instead, he'll appear in one specific sequence. Thanks to Making Star Wars, we have the details of his scene:
-Tom Hardy plays a First Order stormtrooper.
-Said stormtrooper glimpses FN-2187 [Finn] on a secret mission but doesn't realize it.
-The 'incognito' FN-2187 is surprised when the stormtrooper walks up behind him and slaps him on the ass.
-FN-2187 turns around and believes he's dead. He's surely going to be captured.
-The stormtrooper is elated to see his old friend from back during their First Order academy days.
-The stormtrooper congratulates FN-2187 on his promotion to Resistance infiltrator and spy.
-FN-2187 is free to go about his business to his amazement.
Essentially, Finn is on a mission when a former friend from Stormtrooper Academy (?) recognizes him. The whole scene plays like some great comic relief, and it's endearing to see Hardy agree to take on such a cameo.
But what is especially telling about this scene is Hardy's congratulations to Finn. Remember, many of the stormtroopers and First Order personnel that knew of Finn's defection were killed during the battle of Starkiller Base in "The Force Awakens." Hardy's "Resistance infiltrator and spy" comment suggests that the First Order is spreading disinformation and propaganda to cover up the truth. Say what you want about the Dark Side, but they're pretty crafty.
"Star Wars: Episode VIII" will arrive in theaters on Dec. 15, 2017.
Follow Brandon Katz at @Great_Katzby
