Star Wars fans everywhere rejoice. Billy Dee Williams, who was the original Lando Calrissian, is set to reprise the role in Episode IX.

Williams was due to appear at a sci-fi convention but pulled out at the last minute citing filming conflicts. This started a buzz amongst fans as to his return to a galaxy far away. It was later confirmed that Williams will be returning to Lucasfilms’ next instalment.

He was last seen in the iconic role back in 1983 in Return of the Jedi and has since reprised his character for various cartoon series and video games. He is also a regular on the convention circuit.

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Only this year, the character of a younger Lando Calrissian made an appearance in Ron Howards Solo: A Star Wars Story with Donald Glover in the driving seat.

We also reported this week that Dawn of the Planet of the Apes’ Keri Russell, was in early talks to also join J.J. Abrams cast in Episode IX for an undisclosed role.

With casting expected to commence at the end of July, Abrams is expected to cast at least another two key cast members, Williams looks set to be one of those. Star Wars Alumni Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, and Adam Driver are all expected to return.

Abrams, who directed Star Wars: The Force Awakens, is back on board to take the helm after Colin Trevorrow exited following “creative differences”.

In 1989, Williams played Harvey Dent in Michael Keaton’s incarnation of Batman which was directed by Tim Burton. He also reprised the role in 2017’s The Lego Batman movie.