'Han Solo' is an upcoming science-fiction film intended as a standalone film in the 'Star Wars' franchise. Harrison Ford, who played the titular character in the original space opera saga, warned younger actors replacing him of steering clear from the role. Meanwhile, Taron Egerton of 'Kingsman: The Secret Service' has been named as one of the candidates included in Disney and Lucasfilm's casting shortlist.
According to The Daily Beast, Ford joked about the yet untitled 'Han Solo' standalone film during a guest appearance on 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show'. When host Ellen DeGeneres announced that the studio was looking to cast a "new Han Solo", Ford was quick to correct her. He said, "No. Not a new Han Solo... It's worse than that. It's a young Han Solo."
Ford admitted that he was flattered that a huge number of actors were actually vying for the role he made famous in the original 'Star Wars' trilogy, but when asked what tips he would have for the potential candidates he was quick to reply, "Don't do it."
He added, "First, you know, it seems like everything is going swimmingly, and you put in 25-30 years and then they just, they just let you go!... And they show you the door. We're done with you, thank you very much." The actor referenced his character's surprising "exit" towards the end of J.J. Abrams' 'Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens'.
It was reported by The Hollywood Reporter that the casting call for 'Han Solo' has become one of the widest searches ever. Around 2,500 actors auditioned live or sent through their respective audition tapes in hopes of following in Ford's footsteps for the spinoff film.
Meanwhile, an article by Wired revealed that three actors have already made it on Lucasfilm and Disney's casting shortlist for the much-coveted lead role. This includes Taron Egerton of 'Kingsman: The Secret Service, Jack Reynor of 'Transformers: Age of Extinction' and Aden Ehrenreich of 'Hail, Caesar!'. Miles Teller and Ansel Elgort of the 'Diverent' films have also reportedly auditioned for the role but it is unclear whether they have made the shortlist of candidates as well.
'Han Solo' is an upcoming spin-off film intended as part of the 'Star Wars' anthology of standalone films. It will be directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller based on a screenplay penned by Jon Kasdan and Lawrence Kasdan. It is scheduled to be released on May 25, 2018.
