10 Actors You Didn’t Know Were in ‘Star Wars’

The Star Wars saga is a galaxy packed with iconic characters, but it’s also sprinkled with surprising performances from actors who slipped under the radar. Whether hidden behind alien masks, brief cameos, or overshadowed by the saga’s larger-than-life heroes, these stars brought their talents to a galaxy far, far away, only to be forgotten by many fans.

This article uncovers ten actors whose roles in Star Wars might have escaped your notice. From small parts in the original trilogy to blink-and-you-miss-it appearances in newer films, their contributions added depth to the franchise. Let’s explore these hidden gems and rediscover their place in the Star Wars universe.

Daniel Craig

Daniel Craig, known for James Bond, had a sneaky cameo as a stormtrooper in ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ (2015). He’s the one guarding Rey when she uses her Jedi mind trick to escape, a brief but pivotal moment.

Craig’s role was uncredited, and the helmet hid his face, making it easy to miss. His star power added a quiet thrill for those in the know.

Rose Byrne

Rose Byrne played Dormé, one of Padmé’s handmaidens, in ‘Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones’ (2002). With just one line, her role was small, but she shared scenes with Natalie Portman.

Byrne, later a star in ‘Bridesmaids’ (2011), called the experience intense due to months of acting coaching. Her brief appearance is often overlooked in the prequel’s busy plot.

Jon Favreau

Jon Favreau voiced Rio Durant, a multi-armed alien pilot, in ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’ (2018). Known for directing ‘Iron Man’ (2008), he brought humor to the heist crew alongside Han Solo.

His voice role was overshadowed by the film’s mixed reception. Favreau’s work as a Star Wars creator, like ‘The Mandalorian’ (2019-2023), often outshines this cameo.

Sofia Coppola

Sofia Coppola, now an acclaimed director of ‘Lost in Translation’ (2003), appeared as Saché, a handmaiden to Queen Amidala, in ‘Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace’ (1999). Her role was minor, with little screen time.

Coppola’s cameo is easy to miss amid the film’s sprawling cast. Her later success behind the camera makes this early acting gig a surprising footnote.

John Ratzenberger

John Ratzenberger, famous as Cliff Clavin from ‘Cheers’ (1982-1993), played a Rebel officer in ‘Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back’ (1980). He’s seen briefly on Hoth, assisting Leia in the command center.

His small role blends into the ensemble, and his Pixar voice work, like Hamm in ‘Toy Story’ (1995), often overshadows this Star Wars moment.

Treat Williams

Treat Williams dropped by the set of ‘The Empire Strikes Back’ (1980) to visit Carrie Fisher and ended up as a background Rebel soldier on Hoth. Known for ‘Hair’ (1979), his cameo was unscripted and brief.

The spontaneous nature of his appearance makes it a hidden gem. Williams’ later roles in ‘Everwood’ (2002-2006) make this cameo easy to forget.

Dominic West

Dominic West, later known for ‘The Wire’ (2002-2008), played a palace guard in ‘The Phantom Menace’ (1999). His role as Jerus Jannick was small, standing watch during Amidala’s scenes on Naboo.

West’s pre-fame appearance is overshadowed by the film’s leads. His brief stint in the Star Wars universe is a blink-and-you-miss-it moment.

Jodie Comer

Jodie Comer, star of ‘Killing Eve’ (2018-2022), had a subtle role as Rey’s mother in flashback scenes in ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’ (2019). Her appearance was brief and masked by the film’s fast pace.

Comer’s rising fame came after this cameo, making it easy to overlook. Her emotional performance added depth to Rey’s backstory, though few noticed.

Bill Hader

Bill Hader, known for ‘Saturday Night Live’ (2005-2013), was a voice consultant for BB-8 in ‘The Force Awakens’ (2015). He helped craft the droid’s expressive beeps alongside J.J. Abrams, adding charm to the new R2-D2.

Hader’s uncredited role is behind-the-scenes magic, not a visible part. His comedic fame makes this Star Wars contribution a surprising trivia tidbit.

George Lucas

George Lucas, the creator of Star Wars, stepped in front of the camera as Baron Papanoida in ‘Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith’ (2005). His blue-skinned cameo at an opera house was brief but personal.

Fans often miss Lucas in his own universe, as his role blends into the background. It’s a fun nod to the man who started it all.

Which of these Star Wars cameos caught you by surprise, or did I miss an actor you spotted in the galaxy? Share your thoughts in the comments!