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Actor Forest Whitaker may be one of the cast members in "Star Wars: Rogue One." Reuters/Danny Moloshok

Forest Whitaker may be a cast member of “Star Wars: Rogue One.” Variety reported Whitaker is currently negotiating with Lucasfilm to appear in the first spinoff movie directed by Gareth Edwards and planned for December 2016 release.

Whitaker is known for his roles in movies like “Lee Daniel’s The Butler” and “The Last King of Scotland.” He also appeared in movies like “Species” and “Phenomenon” in the 1990s. The actor will next be seen in “Southpaw” and later in “A Fall from Grace.” It is still unclear what role he may play in Edwards’ movie. Lucasfilm and Disney had no comment.

The plot of the spinoff revolves around the events just before the start of “Star Wars: A New Hope.” The movie will focus mainly on how a group of rebels managed to steal the plans of the first Death Star from the Empire.

Production of “Star Wars: Rogue One” is yet to begin. MakingStarWars reported the sets, creatures and other props used in the J.J. Abrams film are being sent to be used for the spinoff. Some of the weapons and one of the ship sets are also said to be getting new paint and are being remodeled for the film.

A previous report by Joblo said the movie may be an “old school war film.” The report also said the Jedi were in the hiding during the time period in which the movie is set and so may not play a major role. The report said familiar aliens like the Mon Calamari and many new aliens and droids will be featured. Fans may also get to see the familiar jungles of Yavin 4.