It’s hard to believe it’s been nearly 50 years since Star Wars: A New Hope introduced the world to Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia. From her breakout role in 1977 to her lasting legacy as an actress, writer, and mental health advocate, Carrie left an unforgettable mark on Hollywood and beyond.
The actress was born Carrie Frances Fisher on October 21, 1956 in Beverly Hills, California, the daughter of singer Eddie Fisher and actress Debbie Reynolds. She began his career in the early 1970s, attending London’s Central School of Speech of Drama before making her film debut in the comedy Shampoo.
In 1977, Carrie had her breakout and career-defining role when she appeared as Princess Leia in Star Wars. Along with the sequels, Carrie also had noted roles in such films as ‘The Blues Brothers’ and the Woody Allen film, ‘Hannah and her Sisters’. In addition to acting, Carrie was a respected writer and script editor. She passed away in 2016.
See photos of her throughout the years below!
