Carrie Fisher. 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. Her other film roles included Shampoo (1975), The Blues Brothers (1980), Hannah and Her Sisters (1986), The 'Burbs (1989), and When Harry Met Sally...