Editing Leia Organa

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{{Character Infobox
| image              = Leia_Organa_ANH.png
| image_size         = 250px
| caption            = Princess Leia Organa in her senatorial gown.
| name               = Leia Organa
| portrayed_by       = [[Carrie Fisher]]
| first_appearance   = ''[[Star Wars: A New Hope]]''
| last_appearance    = ''[[Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker]]''
| affiliation        = [[Rebel Alliance]], New Republic, Resistance
| signature_artifacts= [[Alderaanian Senatorial Gown]], [[Yavin Ceremony Gown]], [[Leia's Sporting Blaster]], [[Tantive IV]], [[Boushh Disguise]], [[Hoth Snowsuit]], [[Huttslayer Costume]], [[Thermal Detonator]]
| wikipedia_link     = https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Princess_Leia
| imdb_link          = https://www.imdb.com/character/ch0000006/
}}

'''Leia Organa''' of Alderaan is a princess, senator, and general who is one of the key leaders of the [[Rebel Alliance]] and its successor, the Resistance. A central figure in the Skywalker saga, she is defined by her sharp wit, unwavering resolve, and deep compassion, with her artifacts often reflecting her dual roles as a diplomat and a warrior.

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==Character Overview==
The adopted daughter of Senator Bail Organa, Leia is secretly the biological daughter of Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala, and the twin sister of [[Luke Skywalker]]. From a young age, she follows in her adoptive father's footsteps, becoming the youngest senator in the Imperial Senate while covertly leading the Rebel Alliance. She is a brilliant military strategist and a beacon of hope for the galaxy, embodying the fight against tyranny.

==Film & Television Appearances==

=== ''[[Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith]]'' (2005) ===
Born on the asteroid Polis Massa, Leia is separated from her twin brother at birth to be hidden from the Emperor. She is adopted by Senator Bail Organa and his wife, Queen Breha of Alderaan, to be raised as a princess.

=== ''[[Obi-Wan Kenobi (TV series)|Obi-Wan Kenobi]]'' (2022) ===
As a precocious 10-year-old, Leia is kidnapped by bounty hunters working for the Inquisitor Reva Sevander as bait to lure [[Obi-Wan Kenobi]] out of hiding. Her rescue by Kenobi forges a strong bond between them and establishes her rebellious, strong-willed personality from a young age.<ref name="kenobi_wiki">[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obi-Wan_Kenobi_(TV_series) "Obi-Wan Kenobi (TV series)"]. Wikipedia. Accessed July 12, 2025.</ref>

=== ''[[Star Wars Rebels]]'' (2014-2018) ===
A teenage Leia appears in the Season 2 episode "A Princess on Lothal." As a young senator, she covertly aids the fledgling Rebel cell on Lothal by arranging for three Alderaanian cruisers (secretly acting as warships) to be "stolen" by the rebels. This appearance showcases her early, cunning involvement in the Alliance.<ref name="rebels_wiki">[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Princess_on_Lothal "A Princess on Lothal"]. Wikipedia. Accessed July 12, 2025.</ref>

=== ''[[Star Wars: A New Hope|Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope]]'' (1977) ===
As a senator and Rebel spy, Leia places the stolen Death Star plans into R2-D2 before she is captured by [[Darth Vader]]. She withstands his interrogation and the destruction of her home planet, Alderaan, without breaking. After being rescued by Luke and Han, she takes command of the Rebellion's military efforts, overseeing the successful attack on the Death Star.

=== ''[[The Star Wars Holiday Special]]'' (1978) ===
Leia appears alongside Luke trying to ensure Han and Chewbacca can safely arrive on Kashyyyk for Life Day. She communicates with Chewbacca's family and later attends the ceremony at the end, wearing a ceremonial white robe.

=== ''[[Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back|Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back]]'' (1980) ===
Leia is a commander at the Rebellion's Echo Base on Hoth. While escaping the Imperial attack, she and Han Solo develop a romantic relationship. She takes command of the ''Millennium Falcon'' after Han is captured and frozen in carbonite, demonstrating her leadership and resilience in the face of loss.

=== ''[[Star Wars: Return of the Jedi|Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi]]'' (1983) ===
Leia masterminds the plan to rescue Han Solo, infiltrating Jabba the Hutt's palace disguised as the bounty hunter Boushh. After being captured, she famously strangles Jabba to death with the chain of her enslavement. On Endor, she learns that she is Luke's sister and Force-sensitive. She fights alongside the Ewoks and helps destroy the shield generator, securing the Rebellion's final victory.

=== ''[[Star Wars Resistance]]'' (2018-2020) ===
As General of the Resistance, Leia appears in several episodes. She recruits the main character, Kazuda Xiono, to spy on the First Order and provides guidance and commands to the Resistance operatives on the Colossus station.<ref name="resistance_wiki">[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Wars_Resistance "Star Wars Resistance"]. Wikipedia. Accessed July 12, 2025.</ref>

=== ''[[Star Wars: The Force Awakens|Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens]]'' (2015) ===
Now a General and the leader of the Resistance, Leia continues the fight against the First Order, a successor to the Empire. She is estranged from Han Solo following their son Ben's turn to the dark side. She tasks [[Rey]] and [[Finn]] with a crucial mission and shares a final, poignant farewell with Han before his death.

=== ''[[Star Wars: The Last Jedi|Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi]]'' (2017) ===
Leia's leadership is tested as the Resistance fleet is decimated by the First Order. After being blown into the vacuum of space, she uses the Force for the first time on screen to pull herself back to safety. She spends much of the film recovering, but her presence inspires the remaining Resistance members.

=== ''[[Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker|Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker]]'' (2019) ===
Having trained Rey in the ways of the Jedi, Leia leads the Resistance from their base on Ajan Kloss. In a final act, she uses the last of her strength to reach out to her son, [[Ben Solo]], through the Force. This act helps turn him back to the light, but it costs Leia her life. She becomes one with the Force, her legacy secured.

==Signature Artifacts==

=== [[Alderaanian Senatorial Gown]] ===
* '''Description:''' A simple, elegant, floor-length white gown with long, flowing bell sleeves and a high collar. It is worn with a distinctive silver belt. The costume was designed by [[John Mollo]].<ref name="costume_vault">[http://costumevault.blogspot.com/2016/09/movie-icons-princess-leia.html "Movie Icons: Princess Leia"]. The Costume Vault. Accessed July 12, 2025.</ref>
* '''Relevance to Character:''' This gown is a symbol of Leia's royal heritage and her diplomatic status. Its white color represents peace and purity, contrasting sharply with the dark, militaristic Empire. The costume, especially when paired with her iconic "cinnamon bun" hairstyle, immediately establishes her as a figure of nobility and grace.
* '''Relevance to Plot:''' This is the outfit she wears when she records her desperate holographic message, the artifact that sets the entire original trilogy in motion. It is the image of Leia that inspires Luke to join the Rebellion.

=== [[Yavin Ceremony Gown]] ===
* '''Description:''' A soft, flowing, off-white chiffon gown worn during the medal ceremony at the end of ''A New Hope''. It is accessorized with a distinctive sterling silver necklace, the "Planetoid Valleys" necklace designed by Finnish artist Björn Weckström.<ref name="yavin_necklace">[https://www.lapponia.com/blogs/blog/the-story-of-the-planetoid-valleys-necklace-and-the-darinas-bracelet "The story of the Planetoid Valleys necklace and the Darina's bracelet"]. Lapponia. Accessed July 12, 2025.</ref>
* '''Relevance to Character:''' This costume shows Leia in her most regal and hopeful state. In contrast to her severe senatorial gown or her practical battle-station attire, this dress is soft and ceremonial, symbolizing peace and the successful restoration of hope to the galaxy. It presents her as a figure of grace and gratitude, the royal leader honoring her heroes.
* '''Relevance to Plot:''' The gown is worn during the film's triumphant final scene. As the visual centerpiece of the ceremony, it reinforces the "fairy tale" ending of the movie, where the princess formally recognizes the farmboy and the scoundrel as heroes of the realm.<ref name="propstore_leia_dress">[https://propstore.com/blog/emlaus23_leiadress/ "Timeless Elegance | Princess Leia's Original Ceremonial Dress"]. Prop Store. Accessed July 12, 2025.</ref>

=== [[Leia's Sporting Blaster]] ===
* '''Description:''' A small, elegant "Defender" sporting blaster pistol. The prop was a custom build, notable for its small size and sleek design, fitting for a diplomat who needs a concealable defensive weapon.<ref name="leia_blaster">[http://www.imfdb.org/wiki/Star_Wars:_Episode_IV_-_A_New_Hope#Leia.27s_Sporting_Blaster "Leia's Sporting Blaster"]. Internet Movie Firearms Database. Accessed July 12, 2025.</ref>
* '''Relevance to Character:''' This blaster immediately shatters the "damsel in distress" trope. When Luke and Han arrive to rescue her, she grabs a blaster and proves herself to be a capable and proactive combatant. It establishes her as a leader who is not afraid to fight her own battles.
* '''Relevance to Plot:''' Leia uses this weapon to help the heroes escape the detention block on the Death Star, famously blasting a hole in a garbage chute to create an escape route. Her proficiency with the blaster proves her value as a soldier, not just a princess.

=== [[Tantive IV]] ===
* '''Description:''' A CR90 Corellian corvette, serving as Leia's consular ship. The iconic opening shot of the film features this small ship being pursued and dwarfed by a massive Imperial Star Destroyer.
* '''Relevance to Character:''' The ''Tantive IV'' is a symbol of the Rebellion itself: small, outgunned, but defiant in the face of overwhelming Imperial power. As Leia's personal ship, it represents her dangerous double life as both a diplomat and a rebel leader.
* '''Relevance to Plot:''' The ship is the initial setting for the entire saga. It is the vessel carrying the stolen Death Star plans, and its capture by Darth Vader is the event that triggers the film's main story.

=== [[Hoth Snowsuit]] ===
* '''Description:''' A white, quilted snowsuit with a matching utility vest, worn by Leia at Echo Base on Hoth. The costume was designed by [[John Mollo]].<ref name="diy_galaxy">[https://diythegalaxyofstarwars.wordpress.com/2017/11/11/classic-leia-dress-fabric-a-new-hope-the-empire-strikes-back/ "The Empire Strikes Back: Leia's Snow Suit Boots"]. DIY The Galaxy of Star Wars. Accessed July 12, 2025.</ref>
* '''Relevance to Character:''' This costume marks Leia's transition from a princess and diplomat to a hands-on military commander. It is a practical, functional uniform that shows she is on the front lines with her troops, directly involved in the strategic operations of the Rebellion.
* '''Relevance to Plot:''' The Hoth outfit is her command attire during the first act of ''The Empire Strikes Back''. She wears it in the command center while coordinating the defense against the Imperial assault and during the evacuation, reinforcing her leadership role under extreme pressure.

=== [[Boushh Disguise]] ===
* '''Description:''' The helmet, armor, and other gear of the Ubese bounty hunter Boushh. The costume features a distinctive helmet with a built-in voice modulator. The prop was designed by Nilo Rodis-Jamero and Joe Johnston.<ref name="boushh_helmets">[http://www.starwarshelmets.com/Boushh_helmets_armor_and_costumes.htm "Boushh Helmets and Costumes"]. StarWarsHelmets.com. Accessed July 12, 2025.</ref>
* '''Relevance to Character:''' This disguise showcases Leia's cunning, bravery, and willingness to do whatever it takes to save her friends. It allows her to move through the criminal underworld, a world she is not native to, and demonstrates her adaptability.
* '''Relevance to Plot:''' The disguise is the key to infiltrating Jabba's Palace. It allows Leia to successfully free Han from the carbonite block.

=== [[Thermal Detonator]] ===
* '''Description:''' A small, metallic sphere with a menacing look and a thumb-activated trigger, carried as part of the Boushh disguise. The prop was designed by Nilo Rodis-Jamero and featured flashing lights and sound effects.<ref name="yourprops_td">[https://www.yourprops.com/Thermal-Detonator-Limited-Edition-Master-Replicas-movie-prop-Star-Wars-Episode-6-Return-of-the-Jedi-YP825618.html "Thermal Detonator Limited Edition"]. YourProps.com. Accessed July 12, 2025.</ref>
* '''Relevance to Character:''' This artifact demonstrates Leia's capacity for ruthlessness and her understanding of the criminal underworld's language: intimidation. By confidently brandishing a weapon feared throughout the galaxy, she proves she can be as dangerous as the company she keeps, fully committing to her role.
* '''Relevance to Plot:''' The detonator is a key bargaining chip in her confrontation with Jabba the Hutt. By threatening to blow everyone up, she establishes her credibility as the dangerous bounty hunter Boushh, which allows her to get close enough to Jabba to negotiate for Chewbacca's "bounty." This act of high-stakes negotiation is crucial to her plan to eventually free Han.

=== [[Huttslayer Costume]] ===
* '''Description:''' A metal bikini-style costume made of brass, worn with flowing red silk skirts. The costume was designed by Aggie Guerard Rodgers and Nilo Rodis-Jamero. The "metal" parts were actually made of painted urethane rubber, custom-formed to fit Carrie Fisher.<ref name="metal_bikini_design">[https://se.pinterest.com/pin/467530005043328813/ "Design by: Nilo Rodis-Jamero & Aggie Guerard Rodgers with sculptured pieces by Richard Miller"]. Pinterest. Accessed July 12, 2025.</ref>
* '''Relevance to Character:''' This artifact represents Leia at her most vulnerable, forced into servitude and objectified by Jabba the Hutt. However, it is also the costume she wears during her ultimate act of defiance. By using the very chain of her enslavement to strangle her captor, she subverts the costume's purpose, turning a symbol of subjugation into one of liberation and strength.<ref name="fisher_on_bikini">[https://www.reddit.com/r/StarWars/comments/sw6618/carrie_fisher_had_a_great_response_to_anyone_who/ "Carrie Fisher had a great response to anyone who was upset about the Princess Leia bikini"]. Reddit. Accessed July 12, 2025.</ref>
* '''Relevance to Plot:''' The costume is a central part of the Jabba's Palace sequence in ''Return of the Jedi''. Her enslavement in the outfit is the low point from which she rises, personally killing one of the galaxy's most feared crime lords and initiating the escape from the sail barge.

==Behind the Scenes==
Carrie Fisher was cast as Princess Leia, bringing a sharp, witty, and modern sensibility to the role that was not fully present in the original script. She was famously a talented "script doctor" and contributed significantly to her own dialogue, making Leia a much more formidable and independent character.<ref name="carrie_fisher_obit">[https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2016/dec/27/carrie-fisher-star-wars-actor-and-author-dies-aged-60 "Carrie Fisher, Star Wars actor and author, dies aged 60," ''The Guardian'', December 27, 2016].</ref>

==Trivia==
* The famous "cinnamon bun" hairstyle was inspired by photographs of female revolutionaries from the Mexican Revolution, as George Lucas wanted a look that was not fashionable but timeless and slightly eccentric.

==See Also==
* [[Star Wars: A New Hope|''Star Wars: A New Hope'']]
* [[Carrie Fisher]]
* [[Luke Skywalker]]
* [[Han Solo]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Characters]]
[[Category:Characters in Star Wars]]
[[Category:Rebel Alliance]]
[[Category:New Republic]]
[[Category:Resistance]]