I was hoping for the best after her heart attack and subsequent hospitalization Friday, but in the back of my mind I was bracing for the worst. At least get her through Christmas, I thought.
Carrie Fisher was my first childhood crush. I was six in the spring of 1977 and had just experienced a bigger-than-life space adventure called Star Wars. The film had everything a young boy could love: spaceships, robots, alien creatures, dashing heroes, a terrifying villain and a beautiful princess.
In her form-fitting white robe and bun-curled hair, Leia Organa commanded your attention the moment you first saw her on screen. Striking to look at, sure, but as spunky and courageous as any of her male counterparts. From the second she starts to verbally spar with the imposing Darth Vader, you knew she was more than just a pretty face. Leia's mettle is underestimated throughout the film, but every person she tussles with - from Governor Tarkin to Han Solo - comes to eventually respect her unrelenting spirit and fortitude.
That spunkiness was on display even more in 1980's The Empire Strikes Back. As a respected leader of the Rebel Alliance, Leia can't admit she has feelings for Han Solo, no matter how hard the scruffy smuggler goads her on. Her building frustration is classic to watch unfold - looks of distain, mumbling to herself - and really is one of the main reasons Empire is considered the best of the Star Wars saga today.
I could have cared less about dolls growing up. But you better believe I had every Leia action figure released from 1978-1983. Every guy my age did, whether they admit it or not.
Fisher was always best remembered for Star Wars, but she did have a career outside of the popular space franchise, providing memorable turns in films like The Blues Brothers, Under The Rainbow, Hannah and Her Sisters, The Burbs and When Harry Met Sally.
They say you always remember your first crush. Well, rest assured, sweet princess, in that galaxy far, far away, you will never be forgotten.
