Carrie Fisher portrayed Star War's Princess Leia.
Carrie Frances Fisher ( October 21 , 1956 -- December 27 , 2016 ) was an American actress , writer and humorist who first became known for playing Princess Leia in the Star Wars film series . Star Wars (film) . The film 's plot focuses on the Rebel Alliance , led by Princess Leia ( Fisher ) , and its attempt to destroy the Galactic Empire 's space station , the Death Star .