The "Star Wars Episode 7" production has confirmed the official start date for filming at the Pinewoods Studios in May, but no casting information has been released.
"It has also been confirmed that Star Wars: Episode VII is set about 30 years after the events of Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi, and will star a trio of new young leads along with some very familiar faces. No further details on casting or plot are available at this time," the "Star Wars" production said in a statement.
However, in the recent weeks there have been many actors linked to the film through insider sources close to the production. Since we can expect "familiar faces" such as Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher and Harrison Ford, below is a list of potential newcomers to the "Star Wars" franchise.
1. Adam Driver
"Girls" star Adam Driver is one of the few actors who are allegedly in final negotiations for a role in "Star Wars Episode 7." Driver is reportedly slated to play the villain in the upcoming film. (Source: Variety)
2. Lupita Nyong'o
The Oscar-winning actress has reportedly met with director J.J. Abrams for a role in the "Star Wars" production. Nyong'o is rumored to be up for the role of a Sith lord or Obi Wan Kenobi's daughter. (Source: Latino Review)
3. Jesse Plemmons
Plemmons is the only actor director J.J. Abrams has admitted to meeting with regarding a role in the film. The "Friday Night Lights" actor is reportedly one of three males up for the coveted lead roles in the next three films, possibly the son of Han Solo and Leia Skywalker or Luke Skywalker's child. (Source: Variety)
4. Gary Oldman
"The Dark Knight" star has admitted to meeting with the "Star Wars Episode 7" production and receiving a "phone call" from them, thought the actor remainded vague about the conversation he had with the "Star Wars" team. (Source: Sky Movies)
5. Zac Efron
Efron has confirmed his meeting with "Star Wars Episode 7," but has since played coy about possibly locking down the role.
"Is it true? I don't even know yet... I guess the force is with me tonight," Efron told TV personality Ryan Seacrest during an Oscar 2014 red carpet interview.
