Who Is Playing Darth Vader In 'Rogue One'?

Upon the release of the very first Star Wars spin-off movie, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, fans will once again come face-to-face with their favorite villain: Darth Vader. While it's not clear as to whether or not Darth Vader did actually appear in the first Rogue One trailer, the fact that the franchise's greatest villain will be featured in the film has been pretty consistent. But, with all of that hype, there's still one major question on fan's minds. Who will play Darth Vader in Rogue One? Now, we may finally have our answer.

While nothing has been officially confirmed by Lucasfilm or Disney, FlickeringMyth.com and Screenrant.com are reporting that Spencer Wilding — a British actor commonly known for his roles in Guardians of the Galaxy, Victor Frankenstein, and more — has taken over the coveted role. However, how Wilding will be appearing as Vader, if he has in fact been cast, is not completely clear. (The British actor is a widely known stunt performer, so perhaps he will all be filling in as the body double for the film?) But, at the same time, the rumors of Wilding's casting did involve the actor being on set for the recitation of some lines.

But, if not Wilding, then what other actors would make a great Darth Vader? Aside from Wilding, there are others who could be entering the Star Wars galaxy.

1. Hayden Christensen

As disappointed as fans were with the prequel film series, you have to admit that Christensen really didn't do a bad job. And, considering that Rogue One would chronologically be happening after Episode III — and the actor is in fact still acting — having him reprise his role would kind of be amazing.

2. James Earl Jones

If Anakin Skywalker stays in his costume throughout Rogue One, then there's really no problem with James Earl Jones taking over the role. Considering the fact that the actor is the original voice of the character — with his most recent voiceover work being for the 2014-2016 Star Wars Rebels series — there's really no reason why he would turn it down. James Earl Jones dubbed the voice for the original David Prowse, so it makes perfect sense for him to take on the role in once again even if Spencer Wilding was cast as the body to fit into the costume.

3. Matt Lanter

Lanter voiced Anakin Skywalker in both Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels. And, honestly, the actor himself totally looks the part. If we know he can do the voice, perhaps he can also pull off the role.

4. Mark Hamill

I know how completely unlikely this is, but, overall, it would be a hysterical turn of events. Considering how little screen time Luke got in The Force Awakens, he can easily play his father, Darth Vader, and no one would even notice. In fact, I think he would do a fine job keeping the role in the famil — as long as he never takes that mask off.

5. Sheamus

The WWE wrestler doesn't exactly seem like a probable choice, but he was once linked to the character in 2014 when he was spotted near the set for The Force Awakens. While Episode VII and Rogue One may not be directly linked, perhaps the rumors did spark some interest for the casting team? He probably can pull off the scary deep voice, let's be honest.

Of course, the role could simply be going to a brand-new talent who comes out of the blue — much like how Spencer Wilding's name has. In the end, there's only one way to find out who will be playing Darth Vader: by patiently waiting until Rogue One: A Star Wars Story hits theaters on December 16, 2016. Until then, May the Force be with you.

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