Rumor: Gugu Mbatha-Raw Added to Shortlist for 'Substantial' Episode VIII Role

A couple of weeks ago we heard that the short list for a new part in Rian Johnson's 2017 film Star Wars Episode VIII included, Gina Rodriguez (Jane the Virgin), Tatiana Maslany (Orphan Black), Olivia Cooke (Bates Motel).  Now it seems we can add a new name to the list.  Latino Review is reporting that Gugu Mbatha-Raw (Beyond the Lights) has been added to the shortlist in recent weeks.  

What's also interesting is that LR is reporting that the shortlist is not for one role, but two.  They describe both roles as being "substantial."  It had previously been reported that screen testing for at least one the roles would be done with John Boyega, who plays Finn in The Force Awakens (and, presumably, Episode VIII).

I can't say I'm familiar with Mbatha-Raw's work, though this being Star Wars that's probably a good thing.  

As always, this is just a rumor until confirmed or denied by Lucasfilm or Disney.