Lupita Nyong'o Has Met for 'Star Wars: Episode VII' Role

Not so long ago it looked like Star Wars: Episode VII would largely be focused on a female lead. That has faded into the background a little since JJ Abrams and Lawrence Kasdan took over writing the script. Of all the actors who have reportedly met for a role in the film, only Saoirse Ronan stands out as a prominent female, and she basically turned the gig down. But there's another name we can add to the list: Oscar-winner and Hollywood's new favorite gal, Lupita Nyong'o.

The new first surfaced at Latino Review, who seem all but certain the 12 Years a Slave break-out is close to signing, and then confirmed to certain extent by THR. The latter trade says she met with Abrams recently, possibly for the role of a distant relative of Obi-Wan Kenobi, which a Caucasian actress won't be sought for. So far there are no other actors confirmed although Adam Driver looks like a sure bet as a villain. John Boyega, Jesse Plemons, Ed Speelers, and Matthew James Thomas and Ray Fisher are up for the male lead.

Nyong'o, who followed-up 12 Years a Slave with a tiny role in Non-Stop, is also up for the courtroom thriller, The Whole Truth. The film stars Daniel Craig, Renee Zellwegger, and has Frozen River's Courtney Hunt directing.

Jumping into a major franchise is a pretty good way for Nyong'o to capitalize on her Oscar win and solidify her career.