Star Wars: Gobaith Newydd - Welsh Language Dub Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Talented Welsh Cast
Star Wars is set to receive its first-ever Welsh language dub, with a talented cast of Welsh actors bringing the classic 1977 film to Welsh audiences in honor of its upcoming 50th anniversary. The Welsh version of the space epic, titled Star Wars: Gobaith Newydd, was created through a collaboration between Lucasfilm, Disney, S4C, and the Welsh Government via Creative Wales. The film will premiere on S4C and its platforms starting on Christmas Day and marks a significant milestone as the original film approaches its 50th anniversary in 2027.
The Welsh-language cast features renowned Welsh actors taking on key roles in the new version, with Llyr Ifans as C-3PO, Nia Roberts as Aunt Beru, Richard Harrington as Grand Moff Tarkin, Owain Arthur as Red Leader, and Rhodri Meilir as Gold Leader. The direction of the Welsh language dub was overseen by Ellyn Stern and produced by Michael Kohn from Lucasfilm, who expressed enthusiasm for the project's potential to promote and celebrate the Welsh language through the beloved Star Wars franchise.
Lucasfilm Co-President Lynwen Brennan, a Wales native, expressed her excitement for the unique Welsh dub of Star Wars: A New Hope as part of the film's 50th-anniversary celebrations. She highlighted Wales' storytelling heritage and lyrical language, emphasizing the significance of offering Welsh speakers the opportunity to experience the iconic film in their native language. The collaboration with Welsh talent aims to evoke the emotional impact of watching Star Wars for the first time, creating a special connection for Welsh audiences.
Wales has a history of involvement in Star Wars and other Lucasfilm projects, with notable contributions such as the construction of a full-size Millennium Falcon in Pembroke Dock for Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. S4C's Chief Executive, Geraint Evans, expressed excitement about partnering with Lucasfilm to produce the Welsh version of Star Wars: A New Hope, recognizing the film's global appeal and the opportunity to showcase Welsh language and talent on an international platform. The project aligns with S4C's commitment to delivering exceptional content and supporting Welsh cinematic productions.
First Minister of Wales, Rhun ap Iorwerth, shared his enthusiasm for the Welsh language version of Star Wars, citing the film's enduring impact and the opportunity to showcase Wales' world-class TV and film industry. The collaboration with talented Welsh actors and the production of Star Wars in Welsh reflects a significant milestone in promoting the Welsh language and culture through a beloved cinematic classic. The Welsh dub of Star Wars: A New Hope promises to captivate audiences and celebrate the rich storytelling tradition of Wales in a new and exciting way.