The ‘Star Wars’ franchise is to introduce its first major gay hero.
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Sinjir Rath Velus, an Imperial turncoat who now serves Luke Skywalker's Rebellion faction, will feature in a new book series, which will bridge the gap between the upcoming film ‘The Force Awakens’ and ‘Return Of The Jedi’.
A new 'Star Wars' film is also due this year
While the franchise already features minor characters who are gay, such as baddie Moff Delian Mors, Sinjir Rath Velus will be the first good guy who also happens to like other guys.
Speaking about the character’s introduction, Chuck Wendig, author of ‘Star Wars: Aftermath’, said: "I don't want it to seem like a glib choice. I think it's fundamental to who he is, in terms of character."
A synopsis for the new novel reads: “The second Death Star has been destroyed, the Emperor killed, and Darth Vader struck down. Devastating blows against the Empire, and major victories for the Rebel Alliance. But the battle for freedom is far from over.
“Across the galaxy, some systems celebrate, while in others Imperial factions tighten their grip. Optimism and fear reign side by side.
"And while the Rebel Alliance engages the fractured forces of the Empire, a lone Rebel scout uncovers a secret Imperial meeting…”
The news follows the release of the latest ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ trailer last month.
The film is set to be released in December, three decades after 'Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi' first debuted.