A classic Star Wars character could be making their return to the series. According to James of The Weekly Planet Podcast, Doctor Who alum Matt Smith may be playing a young Sheev Palpatine in Episode IX.

During the show’s “Hot Scoop or Shot of Poop” segment, Mr. Sunday Movies revealed that a source, who is close to the production of Episode IX, claims that Smith will be bringing the Emperor back to the big screen. This isn’t the first time we’ve heard rumblings that the iconic villain could make his return in next year’s film.

Smith singed onto the film in August, in what has been described as a vital role. His character has remained a mystery since then, with many speculating he could be a member of the First Order. If there is any validity to this rumor, it could explain the hype that surrounds his involvement.

Palpatine was introduced as a hologram in The Empire Strikes Back, played by Marjorie Eaton. Since then, the character has been portrayed by Ian McDiarmid. We haven’t seen Darth Sidious in live-action since his rise to power in Revenge of the Sith, although, he was name-dropped by Luke Skywalker in The Last Jedi, potentiality laying the groundwork for his return.

Would you want to see the Emperor return in Star Wars: Episode IX? Let us know in the comments below! -Jackson Hayes

Source: The Weekly Planet Podcast

Star Wars: Episode IX hits theaters December 20, 2019

The film stars Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong’o, Domhnall Gleeson, Kelly Marie Tran, Joonas Suotamo, Billie Lourd, Naomi Ackie, Richard E. Grant, Keri Russell, Matt Smith, Dominic Monaghan, Anthony Daniels, Billy Dee Williams, and Mark Hamill.