Benicio del Toro Says His Star Wars Character “Like a Villain”

In an interview with a Spanish radio station, actor Benicio del Toro seemingly confirmed that he’s been cast in Star Wars: Episode VIII, being written and directed by Rian Johnson. He’s been rumored for a role in the film for a few months, but Lucasfilm/Disney has yet to officially announce or comment in any way.

The interview, translated by StarWars7News.com, features a section focusing on the future of Star Wars and del Toro’s rumored role in it:

“Interviewer: And are you going to shoot something after that?

Benicio Del Toro: No, just… *pause* Star Wars is coming up, we will see how that turns out. I think we start shooting in March.

Interviewer: And what’s your role in this new Star Wars chapter?

Benicio: Ehhh…. the thing is…. They don’t let me talk too much about it, I’m like the villain.


Interviewer: Oh wow!

Benicio: But…. we’ll see…*laughs*”

Now, there are a couple of slight caveats here. First, he says, “we will see how that turns out,” which could indicate that the deal isn’t quite as done as some may think. That’s awfully noncommittal language if he has actually already started developing the character. Also, his choice of words in saying, “I’m like the villain” versus saying “I am playing the villain” is important.

Either way, it sure seems like the rumors are true. Just over two weeks ago, he also told Entertainment Tonight, “It looks like it’s gonna happen,” and this is the next step toward that.

He also, of course, said the film starts shooting in March (2016). With a release date of May 26, 2017, that’s probably a relatively safe bet, though earlier wouldn’t be unheard of, either.

Lucasfilm did not return request for comment before we went to press.