The countdown to the final part of the Star Wars sequel trilogy begins today with the Episode 9 panel at Star Wars Celebration.
The event will, it is believed, give away the title of the film – as well as, potentially, a teaser trailer.
Anthony Daniels returns to play C-3PO in the film, and gave an interview on Good Morning America today.
It has long been rumoured that the droid plays a key part of the story; with some leaks alleging that his lost memories are the initial MacGuffin (plot device).
Daniels appeared to be caught off-guard on GMA when speaking about being kept on the sidelines in Episode 7, when the interviewer asked if he has a main part in Episode 9.
The actor was stunned into surprised silence for several seconds, before eventually saying: “You know you’re not allowed to ask me questions about 9…”
When host Paula Faris pushed him, he quipped: “Oh stop giving me that look…”
Squirming uncomfortably, he finally mumbled: “I could be [a main part].”
Quickly changing the subject, he added: “Anyway, I don’t have a red arm, I’ll tell you.
“Because that was one thing we really – not fell out – but, I didn’t want a red arm [in The Force Awakens].”
Among the rumoured titles for Episode 9 are Will Of The Force and any variation on the word ‘Hope’.
Spark Of Hope and The Last Hope are thought to be two possibilities.
The panel kicks off at 5pm today in UK time, or 11am in Chicago – and will be livestreamed online.
It’s been confirmed that Episode 9 will be the final Star Wars movie before LucasFilm’s big-screen efforts take something of a brief hiatus.
Once that’s over, there are two more trilogies in the works – including one from The Last Jedi director Rian Johnson.
Star Wars: Episode 9 is out on December 19.