Star Wars goes Welsh for first time with Pembrokeshire actor leading star cast

The force is strong with a Pembrokeshire actor as he is set to feature in a Welsh dub of a Star Wars movie. Rhys Ifans, born in Haverfordwest, will voice Obi-Wan Kenobi in the first-ever Welsh language version of *Star Wars: A New Hope*, reimagined as *Star Wars: Gobaith Newydd*. This production marks a historic collaboration between Welsh actors and Lucasfilm, Disney, S4C, and the Welsh Government through Creative Wales. The Welsh dub will air on S4C from December 25, 2024, across its platforms. Rhys Ifans leads a cast of Welsh actors, including Matthew Rhys as Han Solo, Aimee-Ffion Edwards as Princess Leia, Mark Lewis Jones as Darth Vader, and Osian Morgan as Luke Skywalker. Other cast members include Llyr Ifans as C-3PO and Nia Roberts as Aunt Beru. The project aims to celebrate Welsh storytelling and language, with Lucasfilm co-president Lynwen Brennan emphasizing its cultural significance. The Welsh Government’s involvement highlights the initiative’s importance in preserving the language. The announcement follows a successful precedent of Indigenous language dubs of *Star Wars*, which have resonated both locally and internationally. The 50th anniversary of *Star Wars* in 2027 adds to the project’s significance, marking a milestone in Welsh media representation. The Welsh dub was produced in collaboration with S4C, the Welsh broadcasting service, and directed by Ellyn Stern, with Michael Kohn overseeing distribution operations at Lucasfilm. Lucasfilm’s involvement underscores the global appeal of the project, aiming to revitalize interest in Welsh through a beloved franchise. The emotional impact of the film in Welsh is expected to mirror its original experience, offering Welsh speakers a chance to enjoy *Star Wars* in their native language.