This morning, everyone in the world got what they’ve been waiting for with the very first teaser for Star Wars: The Last Jedi, and it was truly glorious. There’s not all that much to ascertain from the teaser, but Luke and Leia are back for sure, obviously. There’s been some speculation for some time as to whether Lando Calrissian, the coolest space cat around, would be returning, if even for a small moment at Han’s funeral. Well, the man himself, Billy Dee Williams, confirmed during his “Smooth Talkin’ With Billy Dee Williams” panel at Star Wars Celebration yesterday that he will not be returning for Episode VIII, which is truly a shame.
According to Billy Dee Williams, Lando will NOT be in Star Wars Episode 8: The Last Jedi
— Luke Davis (@AlphaPlank77) April 13, 2017
While there was never any hard evidence that he would appear, it’s still slightly disappointing to see that door slammed shut. This will leave Episode VIII with a decidedly absent amount of charm and “slyness” without our favorite smooth-talking space cowboy (well, our favorite beside Han Solo—may he ever rest in peace). No doubt Lando will be chasing all sorts of space tail on his own adventures, and this still leaves room for speculation about Episode IX. Plus, we still have Donald Glover’s portrayal of young Lando to look forward to. As they say, onward and upward.
Star Wars: The Last Jedi hits theaters on Dec. 15, which seems like a galaxy far, far away from now. Watch the first teaser here, if you haven’t already.