Star Wars Almost Cast Eiza González as Rey, But She Didn’t Know It

Before she was famous in the U.S., Eiza González auditioned for the Star Wars sequel trilogy—without knowing what the project was.

At the time, she had no agent, publicist, or manager, and she was unaware of the film’s scale. González read for the role three or four times before signing a non-disclosure agreement, a concept she had never encountered.

She then met director J.J. Abrams and realized she had been auditioning for the highly anticipated Star Wars sequel trilogy. Surprisingly, González had never watched Star Wars, so she wasn’t sure what to expect.

She didn’t disclose which character she auditioned for, but based on timing and limited female roles, it was likely for Rey, the lead role that eventually went to Daisy Ridley.

Although she didn’t get the part, this audition marked a turning point. Shortly after, González landed the role of Santanico Pandemonium in From Dusk till Dawn: The Series, which helped launch her American career.

Fans can currently watch Eiza González in Fountain of Youth on Apple TV+.