In recent years, Daisy Ridley has emerged as a breakout star, capturing the hearts and minds of fans with her portrayal of Rey in the latest Star Wars trilogy. Despite the criticism some of the movies have faced, Ridley’s performance has given audiences a new hero to cheer for. As we continue to learn more about her character’s past, let’s take a look at some lesser-known facts about the actress herself.
1. Daisy Ridley was relatively unknown when cast as Rey.
Before Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Ridley had only appeared in a few productions in England. However, her role as Rey quickly catapulted her to worldwide fame.
2. Ridley has a background in dance.
Her dance training likely helped her prepare for the physical demands of playing Rey, a scavenger and fighter in the Star Wars universe.
3. She showed Prince William and Prince Harry around the Star Wars set.
Although other cast members could have been chosen for this task, Ridley was selected to guide the royal brothers during their visit.
4. The Force Awakens brought Ridley to tears.
Upon seeing the film for the first time, Ridley was overcome with emotion, likely due to the overwhelming experience of being part of such a beloved franchise.
5. Before her big break, Ridley worked as a bartender in London.
Despite looking quite young, Ridley was born in 1992 and was old enough to work behind the bar. Her good looks and charm likely helped attract customers to the pub.
6. Ridley tried veganism but ultimately decided it wasn’t for her.
She still enjoys fish and honey in her tea, so a vegan lifestyle didn’t quite suit her preferences.
7. Although she’s a talented singer, Ridley considers it one of her worst qualities.
It’s common for people to be overly critical of their own abilities, even when others praise them.
8. Ridley mastered lightsaber skills in record time.
The choreography team reported that she learned routines and techniques in just 90 minutes, a process that usually takes others two to three days.
9. Ridley found out she got the Star Wars role while attending a play with a friend.
She received an email and phone message from J.J. Abrams but had to keep the exciting news to herself until the play was over.
10. Ridley has thoroughly enjoyed her time in the Star Wars universe.
She has embraced the character of Rey and the entire experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
11. Her favorite childhood movie was Matilda.
Based on a children’s book by British novelist Roald Dahl, Matilda was Ridley’s favorite film growing up.
12. Matilda’s titular character was Ridley’s role model.
The story’s protagonist, a young girl with a passion for learning and telekinetic powers, served as an inspiration for Ridley.
13. Ridley’s casting in Star Wars echoed the original movie’s casting choices.
Like the main cast members of the original Star Wars film, Ridley was relatively unknown when she was cast as Rey, drawing comparisons between the two situations.
14. Ridley has also done voice acting.
She lent her voice to the English dub of the Japanese animated movie Only Yesterday, which was released in 2016.
15. Ridley has a tattoo of the alchemical symbol of air.
One of her three tattoos is the alchemical symbol of air, an upward-pointing triangle with a line crossing through it.
16. Ridley suffers from endometriosis.
This medical condition, in which the tissue that lines the uterus grows in other places, can cause painful periods and other complications.
17. Her diagnosis led to low self-confidence.
Ridley struggled with self-esteem issues after being diagnosed with endometriosis at age 15, partly due to the acne that followed.
18. Ridley is a big fan of RuPaul’s Drag Race.
She loves the show so much that she dressed up as Trinity K. Bonet for one Halloween.
19. Ridley is an avid football fan.
As an English actress, it’s no surprise that Ridley enjoys association football, particularly Arsenal F.C.
20. Ridley joined the Oscar voting panel in 2018.
She was one of over 900 new members chosen for the panel, with an emphasis on increasing diversity.
How Daisy Landed the Part in Star Wars
Daisy Ridley’s casting as Rey in the Star Wars franchise can be attributed to J.J. Abrams’ desire to cast unknown actors, much like George Lucas did with the original trilogy. Although Ridley was hesitant to audition, believing the role was beyond her reach, she ultimately landed the part and has since seen her career skyrocket. With roles in films like Murder on the Orient Express and an upcoming Netflix project, Ridley’s star continues to rise. As a talented young actress, she represents the new generation of Hollywood, poised to carry on the tradition of show business and bring iconic characters to life for future generations of fans.
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