On Friday, Disney and Lucasfilm debuted the first teaser trailer for Star Wars: Episode IX (now officially titled The Rise of Skywalker). The teaser was met with wild enthusiasm not only from fans but from past and present franchise stars as well.
Among the more notable Star Wars names was Mark Hamill, aka Luke Skywalker. Hamill, who has been openly critical of the new trilogy — specifically the handling and direction of his character — praised the film's intriguing title and helped tease the mystery of who it could possibly be referring to.
Hamill was not present on stage at Star Wars Celebration, but the actor will return in Episode IX - although, in what capacity remains to be seen.
Another big name to react was Rian Johnson, the oft-criticized writer and director of Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi. Johnson has come in for a lot backlash for the direction The Last Jedi went in, but it hasn't impacted his enjoyment of the franchise. His reaction to The Rise of Skywalker was pure joy.
Another intriguing response was from Ian McDiarmid. The Emperor Palpatine actor praised the power of the dark side, which makes sense if you've seen the trailer. If not, we won't spoil it here.
Aside from the cast, the reaction to The Rise of Skywalker has been largely positive from fans. Other stars who who didn't take to social media to express their excitement, but did so on stage during the panel at Star Wars Celebration include Daisy Ridley, Kelly Marie Tran, Anthony Daniels, Oscar Isaac, and newcomer Naomi Ackie.
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker hits theaters December 20, 2019.