Star Wars sequel trilogy actor Adam Driver has shared a piece of advice his onscreen mother, Carrie Fisher, shared with him as promotion for The Force Awakens revved up at San Diego Comic-Con 2015. Prior to joining the galaxy far, far away, Driver was best known for his role in the TV series Girls and smaller, dramatic films such as J. Edgar and Lincoln. Making the leap to massive tentpole fare was quite a change-of-pace for the actor’s career, especially considering Episode VII was perhaps the most anticipated movie of all-time. It seems to have paid off quite handsomely however, as Driver has earned raves for his performance as the emotionally-conflicted Kylo Ren, and considers himself quite fortunate for making Star Wars his venture into blockbuster territory.
Even though he’s worked with Hollywood legends like Steven Spielberg and Clint Eastwood, nothing could truly prepare Driver (or any of the new cast members) for what was in store as he took his first step into a larger role. Luckily for him, the original trilogy veterans were going along for the ride, and their experience came in handy right before the Force Awakens stars took to the famed Hall H in front of thousands of adoring fans.
In an interview with GQ, Driver reminisced about the Lucasfilm panel at SDCC 2015, where Fisher provided the actor with a piece of advice he still keeps in mind to this day:
Fisher, who was beloved by millions for her personality, certainly perfected the art of being down to earth over the course of her career. Her wicked (sometimes self-deprecating) sense of humor and sharp wit was always a hit in interviews, providing viewers with many a sound bite to enjoy. She never gave off an air of superiority and was always appreciative of support from fans. Driver has gone about this a little differently, coming across as humbled to be a part of something special when speaking to the press. Even though the Star Wars community will always remember him as the man who killed Han Solo, his offscreen demeanor made him a quick favorite. Driver has counted his blessings he’s been able to work with directors J.J. Abrams and Rian Johnson, never taking a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for granted.
“The whole cast was downstairs in a conference room, talking through what’s supposed to happen at this big event. She was like, ‘Just pretend you’re down to earth. People love that s***.’ So now I pretend I’m down to earth and you know what? People really do love that s***. They eat it up.”
Driver and Fisher have yet to share scenes in the new movies, but that could change come The Last Jedi this December. An extended sequence in the trailer depicted Kylo Ren struggling with the prospect of killing General Leia in battle, so the mother/son dynamic could be an integral part of the villain’s Episode VIII arc. Even if the two don’t appear together, it’s nice to see Fisher took the newcomers under her wing to help them adjust to the process of becoming the faces of Star Wars. She was also a mentor for John Boyega and Daisy Ridley, proving her legacy in the franchise goes well beyond portraying Princess Leia. It’s just one of the many reasons her untimely passing will be a void too great to fill when Episode IX starts up.
MORE: Did Adam Driver Spoil Rey’s Parentage?
Source: GQ
