The Iconic Return of Princess Leia in Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Carrie Fisher's Weight Loss Journey

News - 28 October 2023
 
 

The Star Wars film series made a grand return in 2015 with the highly awaited sequels. J.J.

Abrams took the reins for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, bringing back familiar faces from the original series such as Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, and Carrie Fisher. Fisher, who initially made her debut as Princess Leia in the first film at the age of 19 back in 1977, reprised her iconic role in The Force Awakens at the age of 59, many years older. In an interview with People magazine, Fisher candidly shared her thoughts on preparing for her role in the film.

The actress expressed that she felt pressure to lose weight for the role, stating that she felt "too fat" and needed to shed around 35 pounds, or nearly 16 kilos, to fit into the character of Princess Leia once again. Fisher humorously remarked on the situation, jokingly saying, "They don't want all of me in the movie, only about three-quarters! Nothing changes, it's all about appearance. I'm in a business where the only things that matter are weight and appearance.

That's so confusing. They might as well just say: get younger."Despite the pressure to meet certain physical standards for her role, Fisher made the decision to embark on a weight loss journey.

She explained that she approached it like anyone else would, through a combination of watching her diet and increasing her exercise routine. "I did it the same way everyone else does: no more eating and more exercise! There's no other way to do it," she stated. Fisher also revealed that she found it more challenging to stick to a healthy diet than to incorporate more physical activity into her daily routine.

"It's easier for me to add an extra activity to my routine than to deprive myself of something I want to eat or do," she added.Throughout the original Star Wars films released in 1977, 1980, and 1983, Fisher's portrayal of Princess Leia captured the hearts of many fans. Her iconic image in the gold bikini from 1983's Return of the Jedi remains etched in pop culture history.

Fisher's role as Princess Leia not only represented strength and resilience but also challenged traditional gender roles in the science fiction genre.Beyond her on-screen presence, Fisher was also known for her wit, intelligence, and candid demeanor. She was a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and openly shared her struggles with bipolar disorder and addiction.

Fisher's willingness to speak openly about her own experiences helped break down stigmas surrounding mental health issues and inspired others to seek help and support.In addition to her acting career, Fisher was also a talented writer and author. She penned several books, including semi-autobiographical novels and memoirs that showcased her sharp wit and humor.

Fisher's writing often delved into themes of fame, family, and mental health, providing a unique perspective on the challenges and complexities of celebrity life.Despite facing challenges in both her personal life and career, Fisher remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry and beyond. Her impact on popular culture, particularly through her portrayal of Princess Leia, continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

Fisher's legacy as an actress, writer, and mental health advocate endures, leaving behind a lasting imprint on the hearts and minds of fans everywhere.