She remains unforgettable as Princess Leia, but her influence extends far beyond that.
Today, December 27, 2025, marks the ninth anniversary of Carrie Fisher’s death. Her day of passing has long been more than a simple remembrance of a Hollywood star – it is an occasion to honor a woman who left a lasting mark on pop culture, film history, and social discourse.
The Princess of All Nerds
Inseparable from Carrie Fisher’s name is her role as Princess Leia Organa in the Star Wars saga. As Leia, she was far more than a romantic accessory: a political leader, a fighter, a woman with a sharp mind and dry wit. At a time when female characters in blockbuster cinema were often drawn one-dimensionally, Leia set new standards. Fisher imbued the character with humor, dignity, and resilience, making her a role model across generations.
Even decades later, Fisher returned to the role in the new Star Wars films, proving that iconic characters are allowed to age without losing their strength.
Other Roles, Other Facets
As much as Star Wars shaped her career, Carrie Fisher was always more than Leia. She impressed in supporting roles that often lingered in memory thanks to precision and humor – for example as the sarcastic friend in When Harry Met Sally or in films such as The Blues Brothers and Hannah and Her Sisters. These roles in particular showcased her talent for pointed dialogue and strong presence, even outside the spotlight of leading parts.
Alongside this, Fisher worked as a sought-after screenwriter and so-called “script doctor.” She helped sharpen dialogue, make characters more believable, and give female roles greater depth – usually without official credit, but with considerable influence.
The Courage to Be Open
As an author, Carrie Fisher perhaps found her most honest voice. In novels, essays, and stage works, she wrote about addiction, mental illness, and the pressures of public life. Her open discussion of her bipolar disorder made her an important voice for destigmatization and awareness. Fisher combined unflinching honesty with humor, helping many people feel less afraid to talk about their own experiences.
Nine years after her death, Carrie Fisher remains present: in film history, in pop culture, and in social debates about mental health. She showed that strength does not mean perfection, but authenticity.