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Star Wars icon Mark Hamill, known globally for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker, has revealed a surprising chapter in his career: a near retirement from acting. The revelation came during a panel at San Diego Comic-Con, promoting the highly anticipated Stephen King adaptation, 'The Long Walk'. Hamill, alongside co-stars David Jonsson and others, shared insights into the project following the premiere of the first 22 minutes and a brand-new red-band trailer.

The actor confessed to feeling a significant lack of motivation prior to being offered the role in 'The Long Walk'. “I said to my agent, ‘I’m not motivated anymore,’” Hamill shared with the audience. This candid admission sheds light on a period of introspection for the veteran actor, who has remained a prominent figure in entertainment for decades.

‘The Long Walk,’ based on King’s 1979 novel ‘The Running Man’ (published under the pseudonym Richard Bachman), is a dystopian thriller set in a near-future America. The story follows a group of teenagers competing in a grueling, televised walking contest across the country. The last one standing wins a substantial cash prize, but the competition is far more deadly than it appears.

The San Diego Comic-Con panel provided a glimpse into the chilling atmosphere and intense performances that fans can expect. The premiere of the first 22 minutes generated considerable buzz, with attendees praising the adaptation's faithfulness to King's source material and the cast's commitment to their roles. The red-band trailer further heightened anticipation, showcasing the brutal and suspenseful nature of the competition.

Hamill's involvement in 'The Long Walk' is particularly noteworthy, given his iconic status. His casting brings a significant level of star power to the project and adds another layer of intrigue for fans. The role represents a departure from his more familiar heroic characters, allowing him to explore a darker and more complex persona. It’s a testament to the project’s quality that it managed to reignite Hamill's passion for acting.

David Jonsson, who stars alongside Hamill, also received praise for his performance. Jonsson, known for his role in 'Alien: Romulus', brings a youthful intensity to the screen, complementing Hamill's seasoned presence. The dynamic between the two actors is expected to be a key element of the series' appeal.

’The Long Walk’ is poised to be a major event for fans of Stephen King and dystopian thrillers alike. With a stellar cast, a gripping premise, and a pedigree rooted in King's acclaimed writing, the series has all the ingredients for success. Mark Hamill's revelation about his near retirement only adds to the narrative, highlighting the transformative power of compelling storytelling and the enduring appeal of a well-crafted role.