Princess Leia grew up: Feminist writer spells out the 'importance' of the Star Wars character

Carrie Fisher won legions of fans as Star Wars' Princess Leia when she appeared in the first film of the popular franchise aged just 20.

Nearly 40 years later Fisher reprised the role in The Force Awakens, where an older, more experienced Leia is now leader of the resistance.

Feminist writer Anne Theriault says that role is the most important version of the character, and her Twitter essay has been read by more than 50,000 people.

"Everyone is sharing pictures of Fisher when she was young, but let me show you the Leia that was the most important to me: General Organa," writes Toronto-based Theriault.

In an often expletive-laden set of observations, Theriault, who reveals herself as a Star Wars' geek, explores the more mature Leia - stronger in many ways than the men portrayed in the films.

Judging from the comments, her observations about why this version of Leia is the best have chimed with many who see a focus on the early, gold-bikini wearing Leia as painting only half the picture.

The later version of Leia - older, wiser and now finally in charge - is, they say, is a more fitting tribute to Fisher.

Read Theriault's full observations here - Warning: Strong language