According to Variety the search for the lead role and Jedi is narrowing to just a select few. According to Variety’s sources they claim that Ed Speleers, John Boyega, Jesse Plemons (who we have heard before), , and Ray Fisher are the ones at the top of the list.
“ Though some insiders warn the search is still ongoing, multiple sources confirm to Variety these actors have moved to the top of the list in recent weeks.”
Apparently the details of this role is “vague,” Variety says and it is believed to be that of a Jedi apprentice. They claim that the reasons for the delay is because the executives and the creative minds want someone of a different ethnicity, which Abrams isn’t shy about wanting for his cast.
Variety goes on to explain that Abrams wants to surround the newer talent with more familiar actors such as Harrison Ford and Mark Hamill.
Star Wars: Episode VII is due out on Dec. 18th, 2015