James Blunt has revealed that actress Carrie Fisher felt pressured by Star Wars executives to remain thin, which contributed to her drug abuse and subsequent death. Speaking at the Hay Literature Festival, Blunt, known for his hit song “You’re Beautiful,” recounted the events leading up to Fisher’s death in 2016. The singer, who was close friends with Fisher, shared that she had been “really mistreating her body” particularly after being rehired to play Princess Leia in the new Star Wars films.

Fisher died at the age of 60, having suffered cardiac arrest on a flight from London to Los Angeles. Her autopsy revealed multiple drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamines, and opiates, in her system. Blunt noted that Fisher felt immense pressure to stay thin, highlighting the different expectations for aging men and women in the entertainment industry. James Blunt’s connection to Fisher dates back to the 2000s when he lived with her while recording his debut album.

Blunt also disclosed personal anecdotes from his life in the music industry, including a threat from the head of Interscope Records regarding his relationships with members of the Pussycat Dolls. Additionally, Blunt commented on the “bizarre” nature of fame and his life post-stardom, now residing with his family in Ibiza.

Carrie Fisher was best known for her role as Princess Leia but had a prolific career in Hollywood. She was the daughter of actress Debbie Reynolds and singer Eddie Fisher. Following her death, Fisher’s daughter, Billie Lourd, reportedly holds Blunt partly responsible, as he described in his memoir “Loosely Based on a Made-Up Story”.