Actresses Whose Final Films Became Posthumous Tributes

The final films of actors are often released after their deaths. These posthumous appearances can involve completed projects or those requiring technical solutions to finish their performances. The circumstances surrounding these releases vary depending on the production’s status at the time of the performer’s passing.

Main News

Carrie Fisher completed her work on “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” before her death in December 2016. The film was released in 2017, featuring her performance as General Leia Organa. She had also finished filming a role for “The Last Movie Star” prior to her passing.

Brittany Murphy died in December 2009 during the production of “Something Wicked.” Her voice work for the animated film “Happy Feet Two” was completed before her death. The film was released in 2011.

Heath Ledger died in January 2008 during the editing of “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus.” Fellow actors Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell played transformed versions of his character to complete the narrative. The film was released in 2009.

Naya Rivera had finished filming parts of the movie “The Swing of Things” before her death in July 2020. The film was released later that year.

Summary

Several actresses have appeared in films released after their deaths. Their involvement in these projects depended on how much of their work was completed before they passed away.

Carrie Fisher’s final performances in “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” and “The Last Movie Star” were both released posthumously. She had completed filming for both projects.

Brittany Murphy’s voice role in “Happy Feet Two” was also finished before her death, allowing for the film’s subsequent release. Other productions have used different techniques to complete a performance when an actor passes away during filming.

FAQs

**How do films get completed after an actor’s death?**
If the actor finished their role, the film is released as completed. For unfinished performances, solutions can include rewriting the script or using digital effects, depending on the circumstances and the wishes of the estate.

Was Carrie Fisher’s role in “The Rise of Skywalker” filmed before she died?
No, Carrie Fisher had not filmed new scenes for “The Rise of Skywalker.” The filmmakers used unreleased footage from “The Force Awakens” to include her character in the story.

Did Heath Ledger finish filming “The Dark Knight”?
Yes, Heath Ledger had completed all his work as The Joker in “The Dark Knight” before his death. The film was released several months later.