New Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker Image Gives A Closer Look At Keri Russell’s Mysterious Character

Keri Russell in The Americans

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The Star Wars universe is on an exciting precipice, as J.J. Abrams' The Rise of Skywalker will essentially end the franchise was we know it. Episode IX will wrap up the current trilogy, as well as the overarching Skywalker Saga that began with A New Hope. Abrams has a ton of characters to service for the upcoming blockbuster, but there are also some exciting newcomers making their debut in the space opera. Chief among them is Keri Russell's mysterious Zorii Bliss, who has been described as an old friend of Poe Dameron. And a new image was recently revealed, showing a better look at her epic costume.

Keri Russell has a long history of working with J.J. Abrams, so it wasn't a huge surprise when she eventually made her way to the galaxy far, far away. But exactly how Zorii Bliss factors into the story remains a mystery. We also haven't see Russell's face yet, with only a few brief glimpses of the character, all of which her helmet has been on. Now we can see a closer look Zorii, thanks to a new Rise of Skywalker still. Check it out:

A photo posted by on

Is it December yet? This still us the closest look at Zorii Bliss' helmet. Although what he character is doing and her true allegiance in the galactic war remains to be seen.

This new image comes to us from EW, and is sure to excite the generations of Star Wars fans out there. Keri Russell's character is wearing her signature armor and helmet, likely because she's a criminal who is trying to hide her identity. But it's what's in her hands that will likely entice moviegoers. It looks like she's got a coin or a data chip, and I have to wonder how important that prop will be in the upcoming blockbuster.

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker will reportedly feature a time jump, allowing the conflict against the First Order to take a new form. From what we've heard so far, The Resistance has fallen on hard times, and can no longer afford to continue the ongoing war against Kylo Ren's forces. This might be where Zorii Bliss comes in, as she operates in the underground of the galaxy. It's going to take all of The Resistance's efforts to even the playing field, with Poe Dameron likely seeking out his old friend.

The Star Wars franchise is known for its secrecy, so the overall story and evens of The Rise of Skywalker should remain a mystery until it arrives in theaters on a few months. The footage release thus far as been limited, with Keri Russell's Zorii Bliss not getting any screen time so far. John Boyega's agent previously indicated that a new trailer for Episode IX was going to arrive this past Monday, but that didn't come to fruition.

Related: Keri Russell Had An Emotional Reaction To J.J. Abrams’s Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker Script

Given Zorii Bliss' connection to Poe Dameron, one has to assume that Keri Russell will be sharing her scenes with Oscar Isaac. This is the third acclaimed actress that Isaac has had the privilege to collaborate with, following Carrie Fisher and Laura Dern. I'm eager to see how Poe has continued developing as a Resistance Leader, as he's been set up as Leia's protegee in the last two films.

The generations of Star Wars fans will have to patiently wait for The Rise of Skywalker's upcoming release, and hope that more stills and footage arrive to raise anticipation. But if you're eager for more Star Wars content, there are plenty of comics to choose from. Plus, The Mandalorian will hit Disney+ shortly.

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker will hit theaters December 20th, and you can check out our 2019 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.

Corey Chichizola
Movies Editor

Corey was born and raised in New Jersey. Graduated with degrees theater and literature from Ramapo College of New Jersey. After working in administrative theater for a year in New York, he started as the Weekend Editor at CinemaBlend. He's since been able to work himself up to reviews, phoners, and press junkets-- and is now able to appear on camera with some of his favorite actors... just not as he would have predicted as a kid. He's particularly proud of covering horror franchises like Scream and Halloween, as well as movie musicals like West Side Story. Favorite interviews include Steven Spielberg, Spike Lee, Jamie Lee Curtis, and more.