Carrie Fisher’s Daughter Wore a Princess Leia Costume And Honored Her Mom
Carrie Fisher with her daughter Billie Lourd Image by getty images
Jewish warrior-princess Carrie Fisher was honored Thursday morning by her daughter at the “Star Wars” 40th Anniversary Celebration in Orlando, FL.
The youngest in a powerful dynasty of women, 24-year-old Billie Lourd wore a Princess Leia-inspired Tom Ford dress during her first public appearance since her mother and grandmother Debbie Reynolds’ deaths last December.
“She often openly fought her own dark side,” said Lourd, who called “Star Wars” a “religion, our family, and a way of life.”
“I learned by knowing her that the most evolved person is seemingly a contradiction: They’re both the strongest and the most vulnerable person in the room. And that was her. That is Leia,” she told the crowd. “Thank you for loving her and carrying on what she stands for. I am beyond grateful.”
Lourd’s speech was accompanied by a tribute video to beat all tribute videos. It showed, among other things:
Carrie Fisher’s screen test for “Star Wars” as a laughing 19-year-old. Her banter. Footage that depicts her playing a skilled warrior. Both “I love you, I know” exchanges. The buns. Carrie, last year, saying, “I think I am Princess Leia and Princess Leia is me”. Carrie lovingly ridiculing George Lucas for his habit of undressing women on screen. Her dog Gary falling asleep, tongue lolling out, on television. Reciting lines from “Star Wars” at every age. Little girls around the world dressed up as Leia. Carrie saying, “The princess is not a victim. She’s very strong.”
Every moment was iconic. Zichrona Livracha, Princess Leia. Thanks for keeping us all away from the dark side.
Watch the full tribute below:
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
