When she auditioned for Star Wars (now retitled “Episode IV — A New Hope”) Carrie Fisher got the role she is best known for, Princess Leia.
Although her character was a young princess, Leia was hardly a damsel in distress.
Director George Lucas wrote, “In ‘Star Wars,’ she was our great and powerful princess — feisty, wise and full of hope in a role that was more difficult than most people might think.”
Star Wars: Episode V — The Empire Strikes Back saw Leia in a strong commander role while also falling in love with Solo.
In Star Wars: Episode VI — Return of the Jedi, she sought out to rescue him, getting captured in the process. When fans saw her in “Star Wars: Episode VII — The Force Awakens,” Leia had become a general and leader of the resistance, but still with a soft spot for Solo.
Variety compiled some the most memorable Leia quotes from the Star Wars franchise:
From “A New Hope”
“Governor Tarkin, I should have expected to find you holding Vader’s leash. I recognized your foul stench when I was brought on board.” — Leia upon meeting the Imperial officer.
“Aren’t you a little short for a stormtrooper?” — Leia to her would-be rescuer, Luke.
“Will someone get this big walking carpet out of my way?” — Leia as she pushes aside the hairy Wookiee, Chewbacca.
“Someone has to save our skins. Into the garbage chute, fly boy.” — Leia to Han as she takes over the reins of her own rescue.
From “The Empire Strikes Back”:
“Why, you stuck up, half-witted, scruffy-looking, Nerf-herder!” — Leia to Han after he revealed to Luke and Chewbecca she had feelings for him.
“Would it help if I got out and pushed?” — Leia to Han after the Millennium Falcon stalls while trying to escape Hoth.
“Stop that. My hands are dirty.” — Leia to Han as he clasps her hands preparing to kiss her.
“I hope you know what you’re doing.” — Leia to Han as he flies into a cave, which actually turns out to be a giant space worm.
“You have your moments. Not many of them, but you do have them.” — Leia to Han with a kiss.