Disney and LucasFilmannounced thatStar Wars: Episode VIIIofficially began shooting this morning. And along with this came the news that three new actors have been added to thecast. We’ve long known thatBenicio Del Torois playing a yet unrevealed role, perhaps the new villain. And it was announced thatJurassic ParkstarLaura Dernis joining this sci-fi universe. But the most surprising moment came whenKelly Marie Tranwas confirmed as part of the newStar Wars cast. Mainly because most fans have never heard her name before.

LikeDaisy Ridleybefore she was cast as the lead Rey inStar Wars: The Force Awakens, most people don’t knowKelly Marie Tran. But she’s done a little more work thanDaisy Ridley, and will be instantly recognizable to those who follow viral videos on the Internet.

The Last Jedi

Kelly Marie Tranis a native of San Diego who got her start in local musical theater. She has also trained with prestigious improv groups such as iO West, Second City, and Upright Citizens Brigade. But she is mainly known for her roles starring in a number of web series, comedic digital shorts, commercials, and occasional guest spots on various TV shows.

The upcoming Netflix original comedy movieXOXOwill featureKelly Marie Tranalong such other actresses asSarah Hylandand Hayley Kiyoko and Ione Skye. Her most prominent role to date came in the original web seriesLadies Like Us, which spawned asequelseriesLadies Like Us: The Rise of Neighborhood Watch.Kelly Marie Tranis also known for her many appearances in the extremely popular College Humor original shorts that have debuted over the course of the past few years. One of the most popular shorts was called “Periods Aren’t That Gross”. And she also took the lead in the digital short “Why Net Neutrality Matters.”

Star Wars

At this time, there is absolutely no information about the characterKelly Marie Tranwill play. Star Wars: Episode VIII is written and directed byRian Johnson. This highly anticipated sequel continues the story lines introduced inStar Wars: The Force Awakens. Coming back are cast membersMark Hamill,Carrie Fisher,Adam Driver,Daisy Ridley,John Boyega,Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong’o, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels,Gwendoline Christie, and Andy Serkis. You can take a look at some ofKelly Marie Tran’s work below.

[EMBED_VIMEO]https://player.vimeo.com/video/93661848[/EMBED_VIMEO]