Star Wars Rogue One - Darth Vader Is Confirmed

It has been rumoured for some time that Darth Vader will make an appearance in the upcoming Star Wars spinoff Rogue One, and it has now been confirmed. Entertainment Weekly are covering the film in their latest issue--so far only the cover has been revealed, but it clearly states that "Darth Vader is back." Check it out below:

Rogue One is set before the original Star Wars, and focuses upon a group of mercenaries who are hired to capture the plans to the Death Star. It is directed by Godzilla's Gareth Edwards and stars Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Ben Mendelsohn, Donnie Yen, Riz Ahmed, Forest Whitaker, and Mads Mikkelsen.

EW's preview of the new issue also reveals that Mikkelsen will play the father to Jones' character Jyn Erso. According to the site he is "a scientist whose knowledge is sought by both sides."

In recent weeks, there has been much coverage of the reshoots that are taking place this summer. While initial reports suggested that Disney were hoping to lighten the tone of the entire film, several of the cast and crew have since sought to assure fans that the reshoots are not nearly as dramatic and entirely expected.

Most recently, Disney CEO Bob Iger told THR: "I've seen Rogue One. I've seen not only an edited picture but I've seen significantly more footage than was even in that picture. That's actually going to be a fine film."

The new issue of EW promises to have more information about the reshoots as well as a look at the full ensemble cast, the role that the Empire play in the film, and a look at the new weaponry it will feature.

Rogue One hits theaters on December 16, 2016.