Once Upon a Time season 7 spoilers: More talk on Lana Parrilla’s Roni

One of the more intriguing things about Once Upon a Time season 7 is that for the first time, we’re seeing Regina Mills have a curse identity. While she was the Mayor of Storybrooke, she was in full possession of her memories and very much understood who she was and what she was doing.

Now, there is a new curse taking place, and it will be centered around the Seattle community of Hyperion Heights. This is a far more urban world than we saw through the first six seasons, which is why it makes some sense that Regina also have a very urban alter ego. With that, the character of bartender Roni was born! Odds are, you’ve seen the picture above of her before, and you can tell from it that you’re looking at a very different side to the character. She’s a little more carefree and conversational, and a little less confrontational to people she perceives to be her enemies.

Yet, that original Regina Mills is somewhere deep within this persona, and it could still come out here and there. This is something that was discussed by executive producer Edward Kitsis in a new interview with IGN:

“We wanted a name that was specific. She’s playing a bartender who’s kind of sticking up for the neighborhood. She’s the last hold out. We named her after Ronnie Spector because we just thought that was such a cool and fun name, and at the same time we could totally picture Lana with background singers.”

When should the old Regina come out?

We don’t actually think that there needs to be all that much of a hurry, given that even when she returns, this is not the same world that she knew previously, and she doesn’t exactly know or have familiarity to many of these characters. She may find some joy in seeing Henry again, but it’s a much older version and the two have a connection that is at present unknown.

For now, the fact that Regina is still there in some shape or form is enough to have us excited for what’s coming up next — regardless of when we get a chance to see it. We’re going to be getting at least a full season to look at these characters this year; beyond that, it’s a little unclear. We’d recommend that at some point by the midway point of the season (at the latest), more of the old version of Regina should start to come out again.

Want to get some other news on Once Upon a Time season 7?

If you’re eager and interested, the link here is where to go! After all, that is where you can get everything from reviews from this past season to some other scoop on what lies ahead. New episodes of Once Upon a Time will premiere later this fall — be sure to remember throughout that the show is going to be moving to Friday nights. (Photo: ABC.)