A long time ago in a galaxy far far away, two brave droids helped take out the Galactic Empire. Anthony Daniels has been there since the start, and has now played C-3PO for three different generations of Star Wars. He began the role with his first appearance in the original trilogy (1977-1983). Then he returned for the prequels (2000-2005). And finally, he reprises the role in what seems to be a final performance in the sequels (2015-2019). It seems clear why C-3PO means a lot to Anthony Daniels. Playing the character for 42 years, he has become an important piece of the franchise. Could The Rise of Skywalker be Threepio’s final goodbye?

C-3PO: Last moments on set

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    Anthony Daniels on his last day of filming for Episode IX. (Image: Vanity Fair)

In an interview with Variety back at D23, the C-3PO actor spoke on the last moments on set while filming the final installment of the Skywalker Saga. When the actor was asked about those last moments, he confessed that they were a bit emotional for him. He explained that it was due to J.J Abrams gathering both cast and crew for a heart-felt speech. Daniels teased Threepio’s possible end by saying that he was very satisfied with this final film, enough that it was okay to say goodbye. To that, the reporter then asked him if it was indeed the end for C-3PO. Daniels responded by saying:

“I think as far as the movies are concerned, when you see The Rise of Skywalker. you’ll understand that it has a roundness to it, the story comes together. I’m not gonna say who dies or who doesn’t die, whatever. But you have a sense that the galaxy is in it’s state.”

He finished that thought by noting his character’s importance:

” To this whole new cast 3PO will very much always be a part of it, and the history of Star Wars. I think a beloved member of the family and very much in three generations in the mind of all these people since 1977.”

He also speaks on 3PO’s greatest trait: is his loyalty to the original cast of characters, and this new one. Daniels also took a moment to appreciate the the return of Billy Dee Williams as Lando Calrissian. And of course he reflected upon his appreciation for the beloved Carrie Fisher and her part in this new film.

Time to focus on the future

C3PO (Anthony Daniels), Finn (John Boyega) and Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) in STAR WARS: EPISODE IX.

Daniels, in his typically cryptic fashion, lastly teased that this movie is going to move us forward. The Rise of Skywalker, according to the C-3PO himself, will wrap this story up while setting up more stories to come. So, could this be the final goodbye for C-3PO? Daniels might have given us the answer by stating perhaps for the next movie, he will be one of us in the audience and unaware of the events of the film.

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker hits theaters a month from tomorrow on December 20.