'Star Wars' Han Solo film updates, cast news: Woody Harrelson officially signs on, reveals details about role

(Reuters/Luke MacGregor)Woody Harrelson is said to play Han Solo's mentor in the upcoming "Star Wars" spin-off.

Following rumors of another actor joining the "Star Wars" Han Solo spin-off film, it has been officially confirmed that Woody Harrelson has been cast in an undisclosed role.

Directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller revealed the casting in a statement they released earlier this week. "We couldn't be more excited to work with an artist with as much depth and range as Woody," the statement reads. "His ability to find both humor and pathos, often in the same role, is truly unique. He is also very good at ping pong."

Harrelson — known for his work on "The Hunger Games" franchise and the "Now You See Me" films — was rumored to be in talks to play Han Solo's mentor in the upcoming film. And while his character name was not revealed, Harrelson himself shared a few details about his role via a Facebook Live Q&A with Mashable.

"I'm a mentor to Han but I'm also a bit of a criminal," he teased. "I don't think I should say much more than that because the Force is not allowing me."

It will certainly be exciting to see Harrelson, who most recently starred in "The Edge of Seventeen" with Hailee Steinfeld, exchanging dialogue with Alden Ehrenreich, who will be portraying the legendary smuggler made famous by Harrison Ford. But before Harrelson was cast, it had been reported that other names were also being considered — including Christian Bale.

Harrelson is only the most recent Hollywood heavyweight to join the "Star Wars" spin-off's roster. Emilia Clarke of "Game of Thrones" and Donald Glover of "Atlanta" are also taking to the skies to join Han in his epic adventures. Glover will be playing a young Lando Calrissian, while Clarke's role has not been not specified.

If reports are to be believed, the upcoming "Star Wars" Han Solo standalone film will be shooting in Italy and Spain. It is expected to hit theaters on May 15, 2018.

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