I think it’s high time Ahsoka Season 2 recast Princess Leia (& it will only honor Carrie Fisher’s legacy)

As Ahsoka season 2 progresses through the timeline after the events of Return of the Jedi, one crucial detail comes to mind, and it’s hard to ignore: Princess Leia Organa. A prominent figure during the Rebellion and the subsequent rise of the New Republic, Leia certainly isn’t a superfluous character during this era.

She’s needed. The reason for her absence in Ahsoka season 1 can be excused as the show only dipped its toes into the New Republic’s dirty politics, but now with Grand Admiral Thrawn on the loose and major players like Hera Syndulla and Ezra Bridger readying for action, the stakes, and the political nuances, are too high to leave her out.

Leia not only serves as a beacon of hope or symbol of rebellion to the people; she’s also a senator, a general, a mother, and the moral compass of the galaxy’s shifting power dynamics.

It would not be wise for the New Republic to ignore the ever-pervasive threat of Imperial remnants, and if Ahsoka season 2 wants to get it right while portraying this reality, they need to get in touch with Leia. They should not cast her now; it is casting her now that evokes loyalty to Carrie Fisher’s legacy, and averting casting her evokes respect for both the actress and character.

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Why Lucasfilm has hesitated—and why it can’t anymore

It's easy to understand why Lucasfilm has been so reluctant to recast Leia. Carrie Fischer is, always was, and continues to be synonymous with Leia. The hurt of losing her in 2016 was not just felt by the franchise; it was also devastating for all the fans who adored her as well as her tremendous work.

Iconic doesn't even begin to describe her performance back in 1977, and that didn't change for decades. The business sense and creative choice of not casting another actor for "The Rise of Skywalker" was rational and justified, but it was bound to be emotionally charged as well.

Things have changed. The franchise is moving at full throttle, and Leia’s absence in the timeline of the New Republic is becoming glaringly obvious. We know people have tried scrapping entire storylines with some attempts at digitally imagining her as well. Those, however, feel forced and inelegant.

She doesn't just need to be conjured up with some storytelling magic or shown with the help of a computer, Leia deserves so much more. Not merely a mention, but an actual role.

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Ahsoka Season 2 is the right time

Considering Ahsoka season 2 is confirmed to delve deeper into how the New Republic is tackling Thrawn, the narrative conflict requires Leia. Mon Mothma has appeared in person.

Admiral Ackbar has been confirmed to return. Hera Syndulla is taking bold action, and Ezra Bridger is back from exile. These are all leaders Leia collaborated with or commanded during the Rebellion. It would be illogical to exclude her at this point in the story.

Actually, in Ahsoka season 1, Leia had an “offscreen” cameo when she sent C-3PO to represent Hera during the tribunal. That plot development only highlights how important her presence is. If Leia is literally manipulating events offscreen, why not showcase her return?

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Recasting doesn’t erase Carrie Fisher—it honors her

The decision to bring in a new Leia, does not mean that Fisher will be replaced, but rather shows why Leia is so pivotal in the Star Wars Universe. Maintaining Carrie Fisher’s legacy in Star Wars as Leia Organa will always involve stepping into the shoes of a character who expands with space, story, and mythology.

Any accomplished actor can take on the role of a well-known figure without disregarding those who held the role before, and that universe has been able to do it time and time again.

For instance, the younger version of Leia, portrayed by Vivien Lyra Blair, captured the attention and adoration of the public. Recently also in Andor season 2, the executive producer—who, by the way gotten bashed unfairly on social media—nudged for yet another change, this time switching out Jimmy Smits with Benjamin Bratt for the inconsistent scheduling issues the prior had.

With this shift, both changes proved that the franchise is capable of moving forward purposefully while still honoring elements of its prior works.

And taking into consideration the schisms, figuring out a way to treat Fisher's legacy is by lovingly, in turn, honoring her by adding respect from a living perspective while ensuring that every direction she turns in will add on to her legacy is something to remarkably behold and would ensure that years of her work end up never wasted.

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Who could step into Leia’s boots?

The subject of recasting Leia has ignited conversations regarding which actresses could possibly fill the new role. Florence Pugh and Anya Taylor-Joy are some of the more popular choices. Both are skilled performers who could bring the Leia trademark shades of depth, charm, and vulnerability.

Everyone acknowledges that Carrie Fisher can never be replaced. Yet, a respectful and well-cast representation stands a chance to further Leia’s legacy in significant ways. An actress who appreciates the impact of the role would not endanger Fisher's memory—they would, in fact, become its contemporary custodian.

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Leia’s story isn’t over—and it shouldn’t be

Disregarding Leia’s importance in the New Republic timeline isn’t just erasing her legacy; it dilutes her legacy. Carrie Fisher was unapologetically passionate about having complex and powerful feminine figures in bold narratives.

If Ahsoka’s second season intends to pay tribute to what Leia and Carrie Fisher have done for Star Wars, the right approach would be to resurrect the character as a real leader who helps mold the galaxy rather than through distant allusions or digital resurrections.

More should be offered to Leia Organa. And doing so would allow the memory of the late Fisher to transform into something tangible while capturing the spirit of the bold and ever-evolving woman who portrayed the defining character of modern cinema.