Star Wars: The Force Awakens - Princess Leia is no more, she's now a general

JJ Abrams has revealed that "Princess" Leia is no more.

In an interview with US website Entertainment Weekly, the director revealed the iconic character, played by Carrie Fisher, has had a name change.

New film Star Wars: The Force Awakens will see her referred to as "General", according to JJ.

The film, due out on 17 December, will see Leia earn her new status by helping to lead the Resistance.

But not everyone remembers to call her by her new name.

"There's a moment in the movie where a character sort of slips and calls her Princess," the director hints.

"There's not much goofing around where Leia's concerned," JJ adds as the story continues in its seventh instalment.

Actress Carrie Fisher says she's OK with not being a princess any more, although she'd prefer to be addressed a little differently.

"People should say, 'Hey! You! My one true joy!'"

Leia's appearance has been brief so far in the trailers, but JJ Abrams describes Fisher's acting for the role as "incredible".

Known for leading the Rebel Forces in the original films, Leia unites once again with Han Solo.

Princess Leia, Han Solo and Luke Skywalker as they looked in the original film

Star Wars: The Force Awakens hits screen on 17 December.

Watch - Star Wars: The Force Awakens trailer

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