Daisy Ridley Spills on Scrapped Film With Han Solo Star
Daisy Ridley opens up about a long-lost project with Alden Ehrenreich and their new rom-com, The Last Resort. Find out what nearly brought these Star Wars actors together years ago.
Daisy Ridley has shared a rare look back at a project that never made it off the ground, one that would have seen her team up with Alden Ehrenreich long before their upcoming romantic comedy. In a recent chat, Ridley revealed she’d signed on to The Last Resort without realising Ehrenreich was also involved. The two, both known for their roles in the Star Wars universe, were nearly co-stars a decade ago.
I signed onto [The Last Resort] before I knew Alden was doing it. Alden and I were supposed to do a movie together ten years ago. It ended up not happening, but we became buddies, so I was really thrilled when he came on
That earlier project fizzled out back when both were just starting to catch the eye of Lucasfilm. Now, after years of missed chances, they’re finally set to share the screen in The Last Resort, giving fans a pairing that’s been a long time coming.
From a Galaxy Far Away to a Rom-Com Down Under
Ridley shot to stardom as Rey in the Star Wars sequels, while Ehrenreich took on the role of Han Solo in the standalone prequel. Despite both being part of the same franchise, their paths never crossed on set. Ridley reflected on her tendency to play characters who are a bit on their own, saying it’s not something she does on purpose, but more what she’s drawn to. This time, though, she reckons her new role is a bit of a change.
The Last Resort, which I made with Alden, really does buck that [loneliness] trend. I got to be around people. I mean, there is an element of loneliness to the person I play in that, but she really finds so much joy in the people around her. So it was really fun to do that
She also mentioned that promoting the film will probably bring up plenty of questions about their time in Star Wars. Since we’re unlikely to see them together in that universe, this rom-com is the closest punters will get to seeing the two share the spotlight.
What’s in Store With The Last Resort?
The Last Resort is a romantic comedy directed by Donald Petrie, who’s behind classics like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. Ridley plays Brooke, a determined hotel exec out to prove she’s got what it takes to inherit her dad’s hotel business. She heads to the Philippines to scout a new spot for a resort, where she meets Ben, played by Ehrenreich, an expat pilot who introduces her to the local way of life. As sparks fly, Brooke finds herself torn between her career ambitions and her growing feelings.
The film also features Jo Koy, Beck Bennett, Sam Neill, and Tia Carrere, with a script by Karen McCullah. The production is handled by Asia Pacific Films (MVP Group), and there’s a strong showing from Filipino actors in the supporting cast. There’s no official release date yet, but fans are already keen to see how this fresh pairing plays out on screen.
Star Wars Connections and What’s Next
While Ridley and Ehrenreich never shared scenes in Star Wars, their new project is sure to draw plenty of attention from fans of the franchise. Ridley’s character in The Last Resort is a departure from her usual roles, offering a chance to see her in a lighter, more social setting. Ehrenreich, best known for stepping into Harrison Ford’s shoes, brings his own charm to the mix.
For those wanting to revisit their Star Wars journeys, all the films and series are available to stream on Disney+ in the US. The Last Resort promises a different kind of adventure, but with two familiar faces leading the way, it’s bound to be a draw for both rom-com lovers and sci-fi buffs alike.