Jenny Cresswell Goes Behind the Scenes of Star Wars’ Deleted Cantina Scene

Jenny Cresswell Interview

1. You played Jenny in “Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope,” although your scenes were ultimately deleted. How did you initially become involved with the project, and what was the audition process like for you?

I was sent by my agent to the audition, and photo shots were taken. It was at a convention a few years ago that I learnt Harrison Ford chose me from the shots.

2. Being on the set of “Star Wars” must have been an incredible experience, especially before it became a global phenomenon. Can you share your first impressions of the set and what it was like to work on such a groundbreaking film?

My impression was one of disbelief at working on a set full of smoke with weird characters milling around the bar. I really thought to myself, “This will never be a good film surely!” How wrong I was!

3. Despite your scenes being cut from the final film, you were part of some key moments. Can you describe any memorable experiences or interactions you had with the cast and crew during filming?

I recall Mark being very chatty to me, and the leading actors were all very friendly. Harrison was quieter and obviously concentrating on his role. Quite a few of my friends worked on the film and spent hours in make-up being fitted with all the incredible rubber masks, etc.

4. How did you feel when you found out your scenes were deleted from the final cut of “A New Hope,” and how did it impact your perception of the film and your career at the time?

I was sorry they deleted my scene, but I didn’t think much about it at the time. I was busy moving on to new projects. However, many years later, seeing it on Blu-ray and attending signing sessions, I would like to have made it to the final version. I was told it was cut because they decided to just have the “love interest” of Carrie Fisher.

5. The “Star Wars” franchise has one of the most dedicated fanbases in the world. Have you had any memorable interactions with fans who have learned about your role in the film?

I have enjoyed meeting fans from all over the world at the conventions I have attended. I still also receive nice letters (such as yours), which keeps it all alive whenever I think those days are gone.

6. Looking back, how do you view your contribution to “Star Wars” and the legacy of the film, despite your scenes not making it into the final version?

Of all the TV and film work I have been fortunate to take part in, my contribution to “Star Wars” is the longest lasting, and it never fails to amaze me how thrilled people are to meet me and hear about it.

7. Can you discuss any behind-the-scenes moments or stories from your time on the “Star Wars” set that fans might find interesting or surprising?

I don’t remember any behind-the-scenes moments except that we were kept busy, and our eyes were sore with the smoke.

8. After your experience with “Star Wars,” what other projects or roles have been particularly significant to you in your career, and why?

I was a member of a small “moon base Alpha” crew on “Space 1999”, which I appeared in for two years at Pinewood Studios. I really loved working on this series with Martin Landau and Barbara Bain.

9. Looking to the future, are there any projects or goals that you are particularly excited about, and are there any new areas or roles you hope to explore in your career?

No, I am retired now and living on this beautiful island. I hope to continue hearing from fans and signing and recalling exciting times in my film world that never quite goes away.