When the preliminary cast announcement was made for Star Wars: Episode VII back in April, some fans of the franchise were disappointed at the lack of high-quality female talent. That’s why the news that two stellar actresses will also appear in the film was so welcome.

It was announced today that Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o, and Game of Thrones star Gwendoline Christie have been added to the cast of the film. This will be only the second role that Nyong’o has taken on since her career-making performance in 12 Years a Slave, while Christie is best known for playing Brienne of Tarth on the hit HBO series.

In a statement, Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy expressed her enthusiasm. “I could not be more excited about Lupita and Gwendoline joining the cast of Episode VII. It’s thrilling to see this extraordinarily talented ensemble taking shape.”

Previously announced cast members include Max von Sydow, John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, Andy Serkis and Dohhnall Gleason. Original Star Wars favorites Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher will return to reprise their roles from the 1977 film that launched the franchise.

The addition of this pair of high-powered actresses carries on the Star Wars tradition of strong female characters, as well as giving both Nyong’o and Christie the opportunity to stray from the types of roles that have made them famous. Ever since Nyong’o won her Oscar earlier this year, insiders have been wondering whether Hollywood really knows what to do with such a unique talent.

Nyong’o herself expressed her glee at being cast in Star Wars: Episode VII with this tweet: “I can finally say it out loud and proud: I’m going to a galaxy far far away!” Christie can also be seen in the upcoming Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2.

The film directed by J.J. Abrams is already in production and scheduled for release on December 16, 2015.