'Star Wars Episode 7' Spoilers: Emperor Palpatine Slated to Return as a Ghost?

Emperor Palpatine may return for the upcoming "Star Wars Episode VII."

According to the Latino Review the emperor will return in the film as a ghost or a shadow like Obi Wan in "Star Wars Episode V: Empire Strikes Back." The source stated, "Palpatine comes back as a Force Ghost ... like Obi Wan. (Sith Lords learned similar techniques, which in some cases allowed them to physically interact with their environment)."

The news came after Jedi News reported that British actor Ian McDiarmid would return to the series as Palpatine. The source wrote, "An unnamed source has informed us that Ian McDiarmid is set to return to the galaxy far, far away for a part in 'Episode VII.' The specifics of the role are unclear, but it seems likely that McDiarmid will be returning to his signature role of Palpatine. Whether as the original [Palpatine] or a clone of, we are yet to discern."

Neither Lucasfilms or Disney has confirmed the news about the character's potential inclusion in "Episode VII." Disney recently announced that it was not ready to share any major details about the movie. The company was supposed to announce casting details during the D23 convention but merely reiterated old news and infuriated fans.

"Star Wars Episode VII" is currently in pre-production and is scheduled to begin production later this year. The film will be directed by J.J Abrams and Kathleen Kennedy will produce. Michael Arndt is currently writing the script, while Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford are rumored to return to the series. "Star Wars Episode VII" is set for release in 2015.