STAR WARS ICON | CATS ORIGINAL CAST | AUTHOR
FEMI TAYLOR
"From Mud Huts to Star Wars and Beyond"
The Performer
From the worlds of theatre and film to international conventions and live events, Femi Taylor’s career has spanned more than four decades. Best known for her portrayal of Oola in Star Wars: Return of the Jedi and as a member of the original London cast of Cats, her work reflects a lifelong dedication to performance, creativity, and storytelling.
Explore Performance History →The Author
Now, Femi brings her unique journey and experiences to the page. From Ibadan, Nigeria, to the worlds of theatre, film, and Star Wars, her writing explores a life shaped by artistry, love, resilience, and self-discovery. Through honest and deeply personal storytelling, she reflects on the moments that have shaped her both on and beyond the stage and screen.
- Personal Journey & Memoirs
- Behind-the-scenes insights
- Inspirational Storytelling
Return of the Jedi
The Legacy of Oola
In 1983, Femi Taylor appeared as Oola in Return of the Jedi, creating a character whose impact would far outlive her brief appearance on screen. Oola remains one of the most recognisable and beloved characters in the Star Wars universe.
More than a decade later, George Lucas invited Femi to reprise the role for the Special Edition, making her the only original performer recalled to film new scenes. The return remains a unique chapter in both her career and Star Wars history.
“I never imagined that a role filmed in 1983 would continue to connect me with people across generations and around the world.”
Milestones of a Lifetime
Scroll down to walk through Femi Taylor's extraordinary legacy on stage, screen, and page.
A New Beginning
Following her adoption, Femi began a new chapter of life in England, carrying with her roots that would remain part of her story forever.
Discovering Dance
After attending her first dance class, Femi found something she instinctively knew she loved. It was the beginning of a lifelong passion.
London School of Contemporary Dance
Awarded a place at one of Britain’s leading dance institutions, beginning professional training that would shape her future career.
Bubbling Brown Sugar
Cast in her first major West End production. Beyond the discipline of professional theatre, the show celebrated Black culture, confidence, and identity, and marked the beginning of Femi feeling truly beautiful in her own skin.
The Apple
Appeared as a dancer in the cult musical film The Apple, adding screen experience to her growing stage career.
Training in New York
Travelled to New York to study at The Alvin Ailey School, immersing herself in one of the world’s most influential centres of dance training.
The Wiz
Performed in The Wiz at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre, further expanding her theatrical experience and versatility as a performer.
Cats (London)
Joined the original London cast of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats, originating the role of Tantomile in a production that would become one of the most successful musicals of all time.
Valmouth
Appeared in Valmouth at Chichester Festival Theatre, continuing to build a diverse and respected theatre career.
Returning to Nigeria
Returned to Nigeria to meet her biological father and four siblings, reconnecting with a part of her identity she had never known.
A Place of Her Own
Purchased her first apartment, marking an important step towards independence and self-reliance.
A New Chapter in Australia
After leaving a difficult period behind, Femi relocated to Australia and joined the Melbourne production of Cats
Australian Film Work
Expanded her screen career in Australia, appearing in the films Flirting and A Kink in the Picasso.
Buddy
Toured Australia in Buddy, continuing to build a successful theatre career abroad.
Returning Home
Returned to the United Kingdom after six years living and working in Australia.
Return to Star Wars
Invited back by George Lucas to reprise the role of Oola, becoming the only original performer to film new scenes for the Special Edition.
Jesus Christ Superstar
Appeared in Jesus Christ Superstar, marking the culmination of an extraordinary chapter in West End theatre.
Motherhood
The birth of my two sons.
A New Creative Direction
Graduated from KLC School of Design, earning a diploma in Interior Design and beginning a new creative chapter.
Zambezi Designs
Founded Zambezi Designs, combining creativity, vision, and independence.
The Writer’s Journey
Drawing together a lifetime of experiences, Femi now shares her story through writing, reflection, and memoir.
Success Stories
"Highlights of a career built on passion, persistence, and pure artistry."
The Surprise Audition
Being cast in Star Wars at age 22 without knowing what she was auditioning for—a moment that changed her life forever.
Dual Mastery
Performing in the original London cast of Cats while simultaneously filming Star Wars, showcasing incredible discipline and talent.
The Chosen One
Being the only original performer recalled 14 years later for the Special Edition, a testament to her timeless talent.
A Character Created for Her
Having the character 'Exotica' created specifically for her in the Cats film, an honor reserved for the most exceptional artists.
What Readers Say
Praise from fans, collectors, and fellow artists.
“An incredible insight into a cinematic legend. Femi's story is as captivating as her performance on screen.”
“Deeply moving and inspirational. A must-read for anyone who loves dance or film history.”
“The signed edition is a prized possession. The book itself is beautifully written and filled with heart.”