'Rogue One': 'Star Wars' Brings Back a Major Villain

— -- With "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" set in the events just before "A New Hope," the franchise has the ability to bring back a lot of characters that are not around anymore.

The first that comes to mind is obviously Darth Vader, who is already known to be back, according to trailers and teasers.

The latest clip, though, points to another of the Empire's finest making a return, though it looks to be brief.

Grand Moff Tarkin perished with the rest of his crew in "A New Hope" after Luke was able to take down the Death Star. Don't expect a 40-year spoiler alert, OK?

But in the latest TV spot, at the 5-second mark, the back of Tarkin's head is visible, while he watches his fated Death Star being built. This cameo makes sense, since the plot centers on the Death Star's plans being stolen by the Rebels, so that Luke can blow it up.

The actor who played Tarkin, Peter Cushing, died in 1994. But as Entertainment Weekly's Anthony Breznican pointed out today, Tarkin had a second life in comic books and novels. Breznican adds that the rumor is Tarkin will be back via digital images.

All in all, this is very exciting news for fans of the original trilogy, who wait to see if Emperor Palpatine will be back, as well. Chances are that's a big "Yes!"

"Rogue One" hits theaters on Dec. 16.

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