As one of the most enduring and influential franchises in pop culture, Star Wars has captivated audiences worldwide with its epic tale of good versus evil, captivating characters, and expansive universe. However, one aspect that has been increasingly in focus is the representation of queer characters in the Star Wars universe. As we take a retrospective look, it’s clear that while there have been strides made in LGBTQ+ representation, there is still a long journey ahead. The Original Trilogy and Prequels: A Lack of Queer Representation When the original Star Wars trilogy released between 1977 and 1983, queer representation was virtually non-existent. Given the era, it’s perhaps not surprising. Mainstream media at the time rarely included openly LGBTQ+ characters, and Star Wars was no exception. The prequel trilogy, released from 1999 to 2005, didn’t notably improve on this aspect, with the primary focus remaining on heterosexual relationships and characters. Queer…
Author: Soeren Kamper
No, Disney is not selling the Star Wars franchise
In the midst of swirling online rumors and speculation, one claim has risen to the surface: Disney, the entertainment giant and current rights holder to the Star Wars franchise, is reportedly considering selling the beloved space opera back to its original creator, George Lucas. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that these rumors are unfounded. These rumors stem from recent fan theories that emerged as Disney began cutting content from its streaming platform, Disney+, and implementing mass layoffs due to its financial situation. It’s true that the Walt Disney Company (WDC) is grappling with a net debt of $39.9 billion. However, the theory that Disney’s next move is to sell the Star Wars IP is purely speculative and based on conjecture rather than concrete evidence. The conjecture was fueled further by a Twitter user who suggested that Disney aims to sell Star Wars back to George Lucas to pay…
“Star Wars: Ahsoka” Set to Premiere on Disney+ This August
Disney has announced that “Ahsoka,” the much-anticipated Star Wars series, will premiere on August 23rd on Disney+. Prior to this, the official release date was unknown, with the only given time frame being sometime in August. The series will spotlight the former Jedi Knight Ahsoka Tano, portrayed by Rosario Dawson, who initially brought the character to life in the second season of “The Mandalorian” and later in “The Book of Boba Fett.” Ahsoka’s story first began in the 2008 “Clone Wars” film and continued in “The Clone Wars” animated series. “Ahsoka” is set after the fall of the Empire and follows its eponymous character as she investigates an emerging threat to a vulnerable galaxy. The series promises to delve deeper into Ahsoka Tano’s journey and her role in the aftermath of the Empire’s collapse. In addition to Dawson, the series features a robust cast including Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Mary Elizabeth…
Racing Among the Stars: The Jeff Gordon Star Wars NASCAR T-Shirts
Imagine a world where the high-octane thrill of NASCAR racing collides with the epic adventure of a galaxy far, far away. This is exactly the fascinating blend that Jeff Gordon Star Wars NASCAR T-shirts deliver. These unique pieces of memorabilia, which raced into the hearts of fans in the late 1990s, perfectly encapsulate the excitement of two distinctly American cultural phenomena. Let’s buckle up and delve into the backstory of these collectible tees. Zooming into the Past: A Fusion of Icons Created around 1999, these shirts emerged during a defining moment in both the Star Wars saga and NASCAR history. “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” was hitting the silver screen, reigniting the passion of Star Wars fans worldwide. Concurrently, Jeff Gordon, the legendary NASCAR driver, was blazing trails on the racing track, further solidifying his status as a champion. The shirts themselves are a vibrant celebration of…
Two Years of Restoration: Celebrating the Successes and Looking Forward to the Future of Star Wars Galaxies
Two years ago, an ambitious project was launched with a vision to bring back the nostalgic feel of the beloved Combat Upgrade era of Star Wars Galaxies. This dream, known as the SWG Restoration, was birthed out of a lifelong passion for the game and a desire to provide a platform where fans could relive their cherished memories. Fast forward to today, the project has not only survived but thrived, marking its two-year anniversary with significant achievements and promising plans for the future. A Journey of Restoration The journey of SWG Restoration has been marked by several notable achievements. The project has successfully rebuilt and refactored a number of game systems and services. The economy remains stable and the combat system continues to be refined in order to maintain balance between professions. Furthermore, substantial content has been released, including numerous community events and the complete Mustafar. In addition, the first…
A Deeper Look into Finn’s Humanity: Unveiling a Deleted Scene from Star Wars: The Force Awakens
A deleted scene from the Star Wars movie “The Force Awakens” has been drawing attention from fans and critics alike. This particular scene, which didn’t make it to the final cut of the film, provides a deeper insight into the character of Finn, one of the trilogy’s main protagonists. In “The Force Awakens,” Finn (played by John Boyega) is introduced as a Stormtrooper who breaks away from the oppressive First Order. This deleted scene, however, expands on Finn’s journey and highlights his inherent humanity that contrasts sharply with the harsh, rigid identity of a Stormtrooper. In the scene, Finn is shown pointing a gun at a helpless villager. The tension in the scene builds as viewers are left in suspense about whether or not Finn will pull the trigger. Ultimately, he decides against it, choosing mercy over brutality. This act of restraint is a testament to Finn’s character, showcasing his…
‘Ahsoka’: Launching into the Spotlight with a Major Marketing Push
Alright, folks, it’s time to strap in and hang on to your lightsabers! Disney+ is blasting off full throttle with an all-out marketing blitz for one of 2023’s most awaited shows, the exclusive series ‘Ahsoka’. And, drumroll please, they’ve finally let the cat out of the bag with a confirmed release date! Now that’s a double whammy worth waiting for! 1. Ahsoka: Front and Center Empire Magazine: Rolling Out the Red Carpet Folks, hold onto your hats because not one, but two exclusive covers for the upcoming July issue of Empire Magazine are hitting the stands on June 8. And guess who’s stealing the show? Yep, you got it, Rosario Dawson as Ahsoka Tano, in all her double lightsaber-wielding glory! Boy, oh boy, isn’t that something to look forward to? 2. A Marketing Campaign That’s All Guns Blazing! Eman Esfandi, who’s bringing Ezra Bridger to life in the series, had…
Vitiate: The Unseen Terror of the Old Republic
Vitiate, an enigmatic and imposing figure from Star Wars: The Old Republic, is a character shrouded in mystery and imbued with a darkness that extends beyond the usual boundaries of the Dark Side of the Force. Known also as Tenebrae and Valkorion, this Sith Lord’s quest for power and immortality left an indelible mark on the galaxy far, far away. But who exactly was Vitiate, and what drove this Sith Emperor on his relentless quest for ultimate power? An Unlikely Beginning Vitiate was born as Tenebrae on the fringe world of Nathema. His birth came during the Golden Age of the Sith, before the cataclysmic Great Hyperspace War, to simple farmers who had no connection to the Force. However, Tenebrae was anything but ordinary. As he grew older, he began to exhibit a strong connection to the Dark Side of the Force, with his powers growing at an alarming rate….
The Unlikely Cameo: John Wayne in Star Wars
John Wayne, the quintessential star of western and war films, has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Known for his distinctive gait, gruff voice, and commanding presence, Wayne has brought to life a plethora of memorable characters, from outlaws to war generals. Yet, the world of science fiction and fantasy remained a realm unexplored by the actor. That is, until a surprising revelation about his cameo in the iconic “Star Wars” series surfaced. When the original “Star Wars: A New Hope” was released in 1977, little did anyone suspect that the ‘Duke’ had a role in it. The studios were skeptical about the film’s success, and even some of the filmmakers and cast had modest expectations. However, against all odds, “A New Hope” broke box-office records, redefining the blockbuster movie genre and launching one of the most successful franchises in the history of media entertainment. Interestingly, it…
The Best Star Wars Video Games Ranked 2023
Which metrics do you use to rank Star Wars games? By how accurately they portray the movies? By how fun they are, regardless of whether they include fan service? Or perhaps by how much Star Wars lore is thrown in? In our opinion, good Star Wars games are a blend of all of the above. Yes, we appreciate accuracy to the source material, and of course we’d like a cameo from Yoda. But what good is a Yoda cameo if the game itself isn’t particularly enjoyable? Creating a ranked list of games wasn’t easy, but after many debates and a handful of arguments, this is what we eventually agreed on. We’re not suggesting this list is final, but think it’s pretty fair. Star Wars Jedi Knight 2: Jedi Outcast If you’re old enough to have seen the launch of Jedi Knight 2, you’ll know how much excitement there was at…
Review Of Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
A Detailed Closer Look at Jedi: Survivor You’ve probably already read a few reviews of Star Wars Jedi: Survivor but might still be a little hesitant to fork out the hefty asking price. We understand, especially since the average price of a game has gone up significantly. That’s why we’re putting out a review of our own, even if it is a little late. Though, you can be sure that we sunk in a ton of hours before coming to a final conclusion. Let’s take a look at Jedi: Survivor and see if it’s worth the money. The Same But Better Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is a great game. We rank it as amongst the best Star Wars games ever made, even taking into account the performance issues. If you’ve played Fallen Order, you have a pretty good idea of what Survivor is. Though we mean that both in…
SWTOR In-Game Events for June 2023
Prepare to embark on a galactic adventure in Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) this June! Three epic in-game events are set to challenge players, offering exciting quests, dangerous opponents, and tantalizing rewards. Let’s take a journey through the galaxy, stopping first at Alderaan for a Rakghoul Resurgence, before seeking out the Relics of the Gree, and finally, diving into a Pirate Incursion. Buckle up, it’s going to be an exhilarating ride! Rakghoul Resurgence on Alderaan: A Plague Returns Set between May 30th and June 6th, the Rakghoul Resurgence on Alderaan event beckons all players level 25 and above. The Hyland Organization for Rakghoul Neutralization (T.H.O.R.N.) has sounded the alarm about a Rakghoul plague outbreak. Quarantines are in place, but adventurers with priority clearance will be allowed to travel off-world. T.H.O.R.N. is in dire need of volunteer emergency responders to contain the plague’s spread. Details about the outbreak are available…
Vader Immortal: A Walk on the Dark Side
Well, blow me down if you’re not in for a real treat, folks! In the vast cosmos of the Star Wars universe, there’s a particular gem that has captured the hearts, minds, and imaginations of gamers worldwide. This gem is none other than “Vader Immortal.” This virtual reality (VR) game is a narrative-driven, immersive experience that allows players to rub shoulders—or, let’s say, cross lightsabers—with one of the most iconic villains in popular culture, Darth Vader himself. A Dive into the Dark Side Vader Immortal is a three-part series, a combination of an interactive film and a video game that throws players smack-dab in the middle of the Star Wars universe. The Plot: A Tale of Light and Dark Ever wondered what it’s like to go toe-to-toe with the galaxy’s most feared Sith Lord? Vader Immortal hands you that golden ticket, but with a bit of a twist. Here’s a…
Downloadable Content (DLC) for Star Wars Jedi: Survivor: What We Know So Far and Reported Issues
In a galaxy far, far away, the Star Wars franchise continues to thrill its fans with new stories, characters, and gameplay experiences. One such title that has captured the hearts of fans is “Star Wars Jedi: Survivor,” a sequel to the critically acclaimed “Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order.” This title has sparked interest and speculation about potential downloadable content (DLC) that could expand on the compelling narrative of the game. However, will the fan’s hopes for DLC be met by Respawn Entertainment, the game’s developer? Let’s find out. What to Expect from Star Wars Jedi: Survivor DLC? The game’s theme of struggling for small victories lends itself well to DLC content. It’s easy to imagine the addition of new lightsaber stances, guerilla warfare activities, sabotage missions, and grand heists that would provide players with a richer gameplay experience. Moreover, it’s worth noting that Respawn Entertainment has a history of releasing…
Star Wars: Skeleton Crew Confirmed to Span Eight Episodes on Disney+
The Star Wars universe continues to expand and evolve, with the latest installment, “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew,” slated to make its debut on Disney+. Recently, the upcoming series caught the attention of fans worldwide when it was revealed that its first season would consist of eight episodes. An Eight-Episode Adventure in the Galaxy Far, Far Away Following in the footsteps of other Star Wars television series like “The Mandalorian,” “Ahsoka,” and “The High Republic” series “The Acolyte,” “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew” joins the eight-episode club. This consistency in episode count demonstrates Disney+’s commitment to a format that provides ample screen time to develop characters, narratives, and the rich universe that Star Wars fans have come to love. The Journey Ahead with Skeleton Crew “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew” promises an intriguing premise – a ragtag group of lost children attempting to find their way home. The series will feature Jude Law…
Unveiling the Enigma of Leia’s Lost Dress: From Star Wars to the Auction Block
Ladies and gentlemen, we’re about to embark on a journey through time, all the way back to the galaxy far, far away where it all began. We’re diving into the mystique of Princess Leia’s lost dress from the iconic Star Wars franchise, a precious artifact that’s causing quite a stir in the collector’s world and is predicted to fetch a staggering sum at an upcoming auction. So, buckle up and let’s journey into this fascinating piece of cinema history! The Dress That Dazzled the Galaxy This isn’t just any dress we’re talking about. It’s the attire donned by the one and only Carrie Fisher in her role as Princess Leia, a character that’s etched forever in the annals of cinematic lore. This dress, designed by the acclaimed John Mollo, who won an Academy Award for his work in Star Wars, is said to be in perfect condition, preserved over the…
Anakin’s Nightmares: Shadows of the Sith in a Deleted Scene
Star Wars, the grand space opera, has thrilled generations with its epic tales of heroism, villainy, and redemption. The prequel trilogy, in particular, delves into the transformation of the Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker into the dreaded Sith Lord, Darth Vader. Anakin’s journey to the dark side, marked by anguish, torment, and tragedy, is a vital narrative thread that weaves the Star Wars saga together. A pivotal aspect of this transformation is Anakin’s nightmares. In Star Wars Episode 2: Attack of the Clones, these nightmares play a significant role in driving Anakin’s actions and decisions. But did you know there’s an omitted scene that adds even more depth to this narrative? Let’s venture into this deleted scene and unravel the layers of Anakin’s psyche and the darkness that ultimately consumes him. The Deleted Scene: Anakin’s Haunting Nightmares In the final cut of Star Wars Episode 2: Attack of the Clones, we…
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic Remake Confirmed to be Underway, Embracer Group Reports
Embracer Group, a renowned video game company, has recently stirred the gaming world with the announcement that the Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (KOTOR) remake is still under development. KOTOR, a game that holds a mythical status in the realm of gaming similar to that of Half-Life 3, has been the subject of rumors and speculation for years. However, as time has passed, the likelihood of the game’s release has seemed increasingly uncertain. Despite this, the recent report by Embracer Group suggests that the project is very much alive, even if the company has refrained from making official statements about it. Interestingly, the CEO of Embracer Group was recently asked about the KOTOR remake but provided no response. The timing is noteworthy as the twenty-year anniversary of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic is only two months away. This milestone could provide the perfect occasion for the…
The Galactic Starcruiser: A Stellar Journey Cut Short
As the saying goes, “all good things must come to an end,” and that seems to be the case for Walt Disney World’s ambitious and ultra-pricey Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser. This one-of-a-kind immersive hotel, which provided a sleepover experience like no other, is closing its doors at the end of September, roughly 18 months after opening. But why would such a grand endeavor meet such a fate? Let’s dive into the journey of the Galactic Starcruiser and explore what led to its unexpected closing. The Galactic Starcruiser – A Universe of its Own The Galactic Starcruiser was more than just a themed hotel – it was a landlocked cruise ship, an elaborate choose-your-own-adventure theatrical experience, and a Star Wars aficionado’s dream come true. It was a project that refused to be boxed into a single category. Guests embarked on a two-night immersive journey that was as captivating as any Star…
No Plans To Continue the Obi-Wan Kenobi Show on Star Wars
In recent Star Wars news, it has been confirmed that there are currently no plans to extend the Obi-Wan Kenobi series. This comes as a surprise to fans, as the series, featuring Ewan McGregor reprising his role as Obi-Wan Kenobi, has been well-received by the audience. McGregor’s return to the character he played in the early 2000s Star Wars prequel trilogy was a notable highlight of the series, with his portrayal of the aging Jedi hiding on Tatooine and looking after a young Luke Skywalker. The series also revealed a previously unknown adventure with a young Princess Leia. Adding to the appeal, the show saw the return of Hayden Christensen in the role of Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader, further fueling the nostalgia for the original trilogy. The series was well-received by fans, prompting speculation about potential future installments. However, Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy recently clarified on Entertainment Weekly’s Degobah Dispatch podcast…
Ray Stevenson, Noted ‘Thor’ and ‘Star Wars’ Actor, Passes Away at 58
The entertainment industry mourns the loss of a great talent today, as British actor Ray Stevenson, known for his roles in Marvel’s ‘Thor’ and the ‘Star Wars’ franchise, has passed away at the age of 58. Born in Northern Ireland and raised in England, Stevenson made a name for himself with his robust performances and indomitable on-screen presence. Best known for his role as Volstagg in the ‘Thor’ franchise, Stevenson’s charismatic performances left an indelible impact on audiences worldwide. His portrayal of the jovial yet mighty warrior in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) was met with widespread acclaim. Stevenson’s contributions to the ‘Star Wars’ universe were equally significant. He lent his voice to Gar Saxon in ‘Star Wars Rebels’ and ‘The Mandalorian,’ bringing the character to life with an intensity and depth that perfectly captured the essence of the ‘Star Wars’ universe. His performances across these two franchises highlight his…
Natalie Portman Open to Reprising Role as Padmé Amidala in Star Wars
In a recent development that has excited Star Wars fans worldwide, Natalie Portman, who played Queen Padmé Amidala in the Star Wars prequel trilogy, has expressed her openness to return to the iconic role. This comes despite her character’s death in “Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith,” which marked a pivotal moment in the series, pushing Anakin Skywalker to abandon the Jedi path and succumb to the dark side of the Force. The Disney+ Star Wars shows have revisited earlier timelines in the Star Wars universe, with actors like Ewan McGregor and Hayden Christensen reprising their roles as Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin/Darth Vader respectively. However, Padmé Amidala has not yet made an appearance. While the character of Padmé was not necessary for the narrative of the Obi-Wan Kenobi series, and it’s hard to envision a new spin-off or prequel focusing on her, Natalie Portman has shown interest in returning if…
Vanishing Act: Unraveling the Mystery Behind the Disappearance of Ezra Bridger
In a galaxy far, far away, brimming with countless heroes and villains, one name that carved a unique niche is Ezra Bridger. A charismatic Jedi-in-training from the planet Lothal, Ezra’s journey was a central plotline of the animated series Star Wars Rebels. However, the intriguing storyline took a surprising turn when Ezra Bridger disappeared into the unknown, leaving a vacuum and myriad questions in his wake. So, where did Ezra Bridger go? What happened to this young, promising Jedi Knight after his climactic act of selflessness in the Rebels series? Let’s dive into the intriguing world of speculation, theories, and possibilities surrounding the mysterious disappearance of Ezra Bridger. The Final Act of Star Wars Rebels and Ezra’s Disappearance To understand the mystery, let’s first set the stage. In the climactic finale of Star Wars Rebels, Ezra made a daring decision that left fans awestruck and bewildered. Using the power of…
The Closing of Disney World’s Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser
In a surprising turn of events, Disney World’s highly anticipated immersive experience, Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, will be closing its doors. The announcement, reported by CNBC on May 18th, 2023, comes as a major disappointment to Star Wars fans worldwide. The Galactic Starcruiser was a unique, immersive experience that promised guests a two-night adventure aboard a luxury spaceship filled with characters and stories from the Star Wars universe. Although the exact reasons for the closure have not been fully disclosed, it appears the decision has come about as a result of several converging factors. From the outset, the Galactic Starcruiser experience was pitched as a high-end offering, with prices reflecting this exclusivity. However, the hefty price tag led to criticisms from guests who felt the cost was not reflective of the value offered by the experience. Despite its unique concept and the incredible attention to detail that went into creating…