Mark your con calendars—because London Film & Comic Con 2025 just added a rising name to its guest list. Robert Timothy Smith, the actor behind the mysterious Jod Neel in the upcoming Star Wars: The Acolyte, is confirmed to appear at Olympia this summer. If you’ve been keeping an eye on the darker corners of the galaxy (and the Disney+ queue), Jod Neel’s presence in The Acolyte has sparked speculation, memes, and more than one “Sith or not?” Reddit thread. And now the man behind the mystery is bringing his lightsaber-sharp energy to one of the UK’s biggest geek gatherings. Who Is Robert Timothy Smith—and Why Should You Care? Smith might not be a household name—yet—but The Acolyte has a habit of turning actors into canon legends. His role as Jod Neel is still mostly under wraps, but early footage and behind-the-scenes teases point toward a character with major Dark…
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Jason Court Looks Back on Playing Kyle Katarn in Star Wars: Dark Forces II
Back in 1997, before The Force Unleashed and long before Cal Kestis started leaping across Jedi temples, there was Dark Forces II: Jedi Knight—a groundbreaking Star Wars game that didn’t just expand the galaxy, but pulled us right into it with live-action cutscenes and a character who became an underground icon: Kyle Katarn. Now, nearly three decades later, Jason Court, the actor who portrayed Katarn, has stepped back into the spotlight with a rare look back at his experience playing the gruff ex-Stormtrooper-turned-reluctant-Jedi. And let’s be clear—he didn’t just voice the character. He was Kyle Katarn, in flesh and beard, filmed in front of primitive green screens and imaginary enemies. This isn’t just a nostalgia trip—it’s a deep cut that reaffirms how much of Star Wars’ gaming legacy was built on guts, grit, and awkward early CGI. Kyle Katarn: The Jedi with a Blaster (and a Backstory) Before he was…
Carrie Beck: The Quiet Force Behind Star Wars—and Possibly the Future of Lucasfilm
Carrie Beck might not be a household name (yet), but behind the scenes of a galaxy far, far away, she’s been quietly shaping the Star Wars universe for years. And now, the Force-sensitive whispers around the Holonet are getting louder: Could Carrie Beck be the next big leader at Lucasfilm? Let’s punch it to hyperspace and break it down. Carrie Beck’s Role in Star Wars (So Far) Currently serving as EVP of Lucasfilm’s Story Group, Carrie Beck has been instrumental in helping guide the narrative threads of Star Wars across movies, shows, books, and games. While Kathleen Kennedy still captains the Lucasfilm ship, Beck has played the role of co-pilot with increasing visibility. Beck was involved in: Essentially, when a Jedi says something lore-breaking in a script meeting, it’s likely Carrie Beck who steps in with a raised eyebrow and a continuity-saving retcon. Why Her Name Is Buzzing Now The…
Spaceballs 2 Officially Announced – Original Cast Set to Return!
Buckle up, we’re going plaid again. Spaceballs 2 is officially in development, and the original stars are returning to hyperspace. Comedy legend Mel Brooks is producing and reprising his roles as Yogurt and President Skroob, Rick Moranis is stepping back into the infamous oversized helmet of Dark Helmet, and Bill Pullman returns as Lone Starr. The Schwartz is real—and it’s back for a sequel nearly four decades in the making. A Joke Turned Reality: Spaceballs 2 Is Really Happening What started as a punchline—“Spaceballs 2: The Search for More Money”—has become a legitimate movie project. The long-teased sequel to the beloved 1987 sci-fi parody has officially entered development. Mel Brooks is once again involved creatively, ensuring the comedy will retain its original chaotic genius, satire, and irreverent charm. While Brooks hasn’t revealed whether this new entry will stick with the original subtitle, you can bet the movie will still mock…
10 Years Without Count Dooku: Remembering Christopher Lee’s Legacy in Star Wars
June 7 marks ten years since Sir Christopher Lee departed this world — or, as some would say in the Star Wars universe, became one with the Force. A full decade later, his deep voice still echoes across the galaxy, and his presence as Count Dooku remains one of the most commanding in the entire franchise. Forget noisy Sith like Maul or rage-fueled tantrums à la Anakin — Lee’s Dooku was a masterclass in aristocratic menace. He didn’t just swing a lightsaber; he debated you with it. Let’s take a hyperspace jump back through the career of the man who made treason look classy and evil sound like Shakespeare. ⚔️ Count Dooku: The Sith Lord Who Brought Swagger to the Dark Side Introduced in Attack of the Clones (2002), Count Dooku — also known as Darth Tyranus — wasn’t your typical Sith baddie. He wasn’t a snarling monster or an…
Comic Con Liverpool 2025: Cameron Monaghan Brings the Force to the Stage
While most people spent May 3rd and 4th recovering from their Star Wars Day hangovers, thousands made the pilgrimage to Exhibition Centre Liverpool for Comic Con Liverpool 2025—and the Force was definitely strong with this one. Among the galaxy of star-studded guests, one name sparked a collective Jedi mind-meld: Cameron Monaghan, the man behind Cal Kestis in Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order and Jedi: Survivor. Spoiler alert: Yes, he talked about that lightsaber scene. Lightsabers, Liverpudlians, and a Live Q&A Cameron Monaghan took the stage for a highly anticipated Q&A session that had the crowd buzzing faster than a hyperdrive malfunction. Known not just for his Jedi role, but also for his chilling turn as Jerome in Gotham, Monaghan shared behind-the-scenes stories, insights into motion-capture acting, and how it feels to be a virtual action figure with better abs than most real humans. The Q&A covered everything from training with…
Mia Goth Joins Ryan Gosling in ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ – A New Era Begins
The galaxy far, far away is expanding once again. Mia Goth has been cast alongside Ryan Gosling in the upcoming film Star Wars: Starfighter, directed by Shawn Levy. Scheduled for release on May 28, 2027, the movie promises to usher in a fresh chapter in the Star Wars saga. A Fresh Take on the Star Wars Universe Set approximately five years after the events of The Rise of Skywalker, Star Wars: Starfighter aims to explore new narratives within the beloved universe. With a screenplay penned by Jonathan Tropper, known for his collaboration with Levy on The Adam Project, the film is expected to introduce original characters and storylines, moving beyond the traditional Skywalker arc. Stellar Cast and Creative Team Ryan Gosling’s involvement was confirmed earlier this year, bringing his dynamic presence to the franchise. The addition of Mia Goth, acclaimed for her roles in psychological thrillers, adds depth to the…
Kyle Soller Joins Manchester Comic Con 2025 – A Must-See for Star Wars and Sci-Fi Enthusiasts
Get ready, Manchester! Kyle Soller, renowned for his role as Syril Karn in the Disney+ series Andor, is set to make a special appearance at Comic Con Manchester on Sunday, July 27, 2025. This one-day-only event at the BEC Arena offers a unique opportunity to meet the actor behind one of Andor‘s most compelling characters. From Andor to Manchester: Kyle Soller’s Journey Kyle Soller captivated audiences with his portrayal of Syril Karn, an ambitious and complex character in the Star Wars universe. His performance added depth to the series, making Syril a standout figure in the Andor narrative. Beyond Andor, Soller’s diverse acting portfolio includes roles in Poldark and The Titan, showcasing his versatility and talent. Event Details: Meet Kyle Soller Fans attending Comic Con Manchester will have the chance to engage with Soller through autograph sessions and photo opportunities. Both autographs and photos are priced at £30.00 each, plus…
Denise Gough Is Heading to Manchester Comic Con – And Yes, the ISB Will Be Watching
If you’ve ever wanted to come face-to-face with the woman who could out-intimidate a room full of stormtroopers without raising her voice, now’s your chance. Denise Gough, who brought bone-chilling precision to the role of Dedra Meero in Andor, is confirmed to appear at Manchester Comic Con on July 27, 2025. So yes, the Imperial Security Bureau is officially on UK soil. You’ve been warned. Dedra Meero Takes the Spotlight Gough’s performance in Andor as Dedra Meero—a ruthlessly determined ISB officer climbing the imperial ranks—was nothing short of a masterclass in how to make audiences simultaneously terrified and captivated. Her calculated expressions, ice-cold interrogations, and disturbingly relatable ambition made Dedra one of the most memorable characters in the series. It’s not every day you get the chance to meet the face behind one of the Empire’s most effective enforcers, and for once, you won’t be interrogated about your whereabouts during…
Mark Hamill Officially Bows Out of Star Wars—And Here’s What That Means for the Galaxy
Well, it’s finally official. After decades of lightsaber duels, force ghost cameos, and one unforgettable moment with a carton of blue milk, Mark Hamill has confirmed he’s done with Star Wars. That’s right—the man behind Luke Skywalker is hanging up his Jedi robes for good, and he’s not looking back (unless it’s in a documentary narrated by Werner Herzog, maybe). Hamill’s recent comments during a press appearance didn’t leave much room for interpretation. Asked whether he’d ever return to the Star Wars universe, his answer was crystal clear: No plans. No desire. No more Force ghost cameos.If you’re feeling reflective, check out The Impact of Luke Skywalker and Mark Hamill on Our Society Will Never End—a book that dives deep into how a farm boy from Tatooine helped shape pop culture and beyond. 🌠 Mark Hamill and the End of a Jedi Era Let’s rewind for a second. Mark Hamill…
Hayden Christensen Confirmed for Comic Con Scotland 2025: Meet the Chosen One in Edinburgh
Hayden Christensen, the man behind one of the galaxy’s most controversial character arcs (hello, Jedi-turned-Sith), is packing up his lightsaber and heading to the Royal Highland Centre in Edinburgh for Comic Con Scotland 2025, taking place October 11th and 12th. Yes, you read that right. The actual Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader from the Star Wars prequel trilogy, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Ahsoka is appearing live in person. This isn’t a hologram, a Force ghost, or a deepfake. It’s Hayden. In the flesh. And he’s ready to smile, sign, and snap photos. While Christensen may have once lamented sand’s coarse and irritating nature, he seems to have no issue with Scotland’s famously unpredictable weather. That’s commitment. How Much to Meet the Chosen One? If you’ve ever dreamed of saying “You were the Chosen One!” directly to Anakin’s face, now’s your chance—though it’ll cost you. Autographs with Hayden Christensen are priced at £157.50, while…
Ryan Reynolds Wants an R-Rated Star Wars—Just Not With Himself in It
In a galaxy not so far from the Deadpool cinematic universe, Ryan Reynolds has done the unthinkable: he pitched an R-rated Star Wars project to Disney. No lightsaber-slinging Merc with a Mouth, no profanity-laced Yoda spinoff (yet), just a serious—albeit bold—idea to take Star Wars storytelling somewhere deeper, darker, and maybe just a little more grown-up. On a recent episode of The Box Office podcast, Reynolds dropped this little hyperspace bomb: “I pitched to Disney, I said, ‘Why don’t we do an R-rated Star Wars property?’ It doesn’t have to be overt, A+ characters. There’s a wide range of characters you could use.” In typical Ryan Reynolds fashion, it wasn’t about shock value. It was about emotion. He pitched the R rating as “a Trojan horse for emotion,” not just for dropping F-bombs in front of droids. And honestly? That’s probably the most Ryan Reynolds way to describe it. Not…
Rian Johnson: From Jedi Battles to Knives Out Clues
There’s surviving a Star Wars fan war—and then there’s thriving through it while writing your next hit murder mystery in a bathrobe. Rian Johnson, the director who divided the galaxy with The Last Jedi, sat down with The Independent and, as always, brought his blend of intellect, charm, and just enough self-deprecating humor to remind us why he’s still one of the most interesting creatives in Hollywood. In case you missed it: yes, Johnson’s Star Wars trilogy is still technically in development. No, there are no confirmed release dates. And yes, he still very much cares about the franchise, even if portions of the internet continue to wield pitchforks over Luke Skywalker’s moody hermit phase. Star Wars: The Great Fan War (Episode ∞) Let’s address the nerf-herder in the room: The Last Jedi. Johnson, ever the diplomat, likens the franchise’s heated history to actual world wars. “We experienced our own,”…
Why Jyn Erso Didn’t Show Up in Andor — Tony Gilroy Explains the Real Reason
Jyn Erso and Cassian Andor. The power duo that stole the Death Star plans and went out in a literal blaze of glory. So, naturally, when Andor premiered on Disney+ and promised to explore the early days of Cassian’s rebellion, many expected—or at least quietly hoped—to see the return of Jyn Erso. Spoiler alert: She never shows up. And it’s not because she’s on a secret mission, or in carbonite, or off doing a Rogue One prequel to the prequel. Nope. The reason is a lot simpler—and it comes straight from showrunner Tony Gilroy himself. The Temptation of the Cameo You’d think that bringing back Jyn Erso would be a no-brainer. She’s Cassian’s co-hero, after all. Their story in Rogue One is tragic, bold, and deeply connected to the birth of the Rebel Alliance. So why not throw in a cheeky cameo? Tony Gilroy addressed this in a recent interview,…
No Underwear in Space: The Iconic Star Wars Costume Anecdote of George Lucas and Carrie Fisher
Setting the Stage: Star Wars, 1977 and Princess Leia’s Costume In 1977, a 19-year-old Carrie Fisher donned Princess Leia’s flowing white gown on the set of Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. This now-iconic dress was long, shapeless, and undeniably white. Fisher later confessed she wasn’t a fan of the outfit – “I wore that damn white thing for the whole first movie!” she quipped, lamenting that it was the only costume Leia got to wear. The young actress’s frustration is understandable; the dress was not only plain but also presented some unique wardrobe challenges. Despite Star Wars being a space fantasy, creator George Lucas was oddly concerned with certain “realistic” details. One such detail was the matter of undergarments (or lack thereof) in outer space. The costume’s thin fabric and the bright studio lighting made traditional underwear problematic – any visible lines or straps would have disrupted…
Diego Luna’s Journey as Cassian Andor: From Rogue One to Andor Season Two
On this day back in 2015, news broke that Diego Luna had been cast as Cassian Andor in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. It’s wild to think that exactly ten years later, his final portrayal of the rebel spy is set to premiere in Andor Season Two on Disney+. A decade is a long time in the Star Wars universe, and Luna’s journey as Cassian has been nothing short of transformative—not just for the character, but for Star Wars storytelling as a whole. The Announcement Heard Across the Galaxy When Lucasfilm announced Diego Luna’s casting in 2015, reactions were mixed. Luna was known for his dramatic roles in films like Y Tu Mamá También and Milk, but a gritty space opera set in the Star Wars universe? That was new territory. Yet, as soon as Rogue One hit theaters in 2016, it became clear that Luna’s portrayal of Cassian…
How People Analytics is Transforming Modern HR Strategies
The world of HR is shifting from instinct to insight, with data becoming the driving force behind smarter people’s decisions. A CIPD Qualification empowers professionals to turn complex workforce data into meaningful action in this evolving landscape. That’s where People Analytics offers deep understandings that help shape more strategic and forward-thinking HR practices. From predicting talent needs to enhancing employee experience, traditional approaches are transformed into data-led strategies. Ready to see how People Analytics is redefining modern HR? Let’s dive in. Table of Contents Smart Ways People Analytics is Changing HR Strategy People Analytics is helping HR professionals make better decisions, improve employee experiences, and drive real business results. Below are the key ways this powerful tool is reshaping how HR works every day: Moving from Instinct to Smart HR Decisions In the past, HR professionals primarily relied on their intuition, firsthand knowledge, and unofficial input to inform their choices….
Hayden Christensen Is Coming to Comic Con Manchester 2025 – And Yes, That’s Really Happening
If someone had told you twenty years ago that Hayden Christensen would one day become one of the most beloved returning figures in the Star Wars galaxy, you might have dropped your blue milk. But here we are in 2025, and not only has Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader made a triumphant comeback in Obi-Wan Kenobi and Ahsoka, but Christensen himself is now taking center stage at one of the UK’s most anticipated pop culture events. That’s right — Comic Con Manchester 2025 is bringing the heat this summer by hosting none other than Hayden Christensen on July 26–27. This isn’t just a casual drop-by either. It’s a full-on meet-and-greet, autograph signing, photo-posing, lightsaber-swinging kind of weekend. Okay, maybe not the lightsaber part (insurance liability and all), but the rest? Absolutely. For lovers of all things Star Wars — whether your shelves are lined with vintage Kenner figures, your Kindle is filled…
John Boyega Had Just £45 When He Landed His Star Wars Role — Seriously
Before he was running from stormtroopers and wielding a lightsaber, John Boyega was, well… broke. According to a recent interview reported by Far Out Magazine, the actor revealed that he had just £45 in his bank account when he found out he’d been cast in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Talk about jumping into hyperspace with no credits. Boyega, who would go on to play ex-stormtrooper-turned-Resistance-fighter Finn, shared this detail while reflecting on his early career. And while the Star Wars sequel trilogy had its share of galactic-scale drama, nothing beats the plot twist of a nearly flat-broke actor landing one of the most iconic roles in cinema history. The Audition That Changed Everything Boyega’s path to a galaxy-spanning role wasn’t paved with gold. After early buzz from his breakout role in Attack the Block, he was gaining attention, but not necessarily cash. In fact, he admitted that around the…
Ryan Gosling’s Star Wars Movie Might Drop Sooner Than Expected — According to the Writer
Ryan Gosling. A galaxy far, far away. And now… possibly not that far away. According to screenwriter Jonathan Tropper, the much-rumored Star Wars movie from director Shawn Levy and starring Ryan Gosling could arrive “sooner than you think.” And for a project that’s had more mystery than a Jedi prophecy, that’s a pretty big deal. While the film has been quietly in development behind the scenes, this is one of the first times a creative directly attached to the project has publicly teased momentum—and it’s enough to spark speculation across the Outer Rim. Here’s what we know, what we’re guessing, and what could be heading toward hyperspace. 🚀 A Star Wars Movie with Ryan Gosling? Yep, That’s Real The idea of Ryan Gosling starring in a Star Wars movie sounds like the result of an ambitious fan cast, but it’s actually been circulating for a while now. Director Shawn Levy,…
Hondo Ohnaka Confirmed to Return in Upcoming Star Wars Project, Says Jim Cummings
Looks like everyone’s favorite space pirate might be making a comeback—and no, it’s not a smuggler’s tall tale this time. Jim Cummings, the legendary voice behind Hondo Ohnaka, has officially spilled the space beans: the Weequay outlaw is returning to the Star Wars galaxy in an upcoming project. That’s right, Hondo’s back, and he’s bringing the chaos with him. In a recent interview with ComicBookMovie.com, Cummings casually confirmed, “I did the facial recognition for Hondo Ohnaka for an upcoming project, so stay tuned [for] that.” (source) While details about the project remain securely locked behind an Imperial-level security firewall, the confirmation is enough to stir excitement across hyperspace. This development marks the first time Hondo has been confirmed for a new appearance since his role in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney Parks, and before that, Star Wars Rebels and The Clone Wars. Who Is Hondo Ohnaka, Again? For anyone…
🎭 Oscar Isaac Bows Out of Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025
In a galaxy not so far away—specifically, Japan—plans are shifting like a podracer in a tight corner. Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025 was set to feature an appearance from Oscar Isaac, the beloved actor behind Resistance flyboy Poe Dameron. But alas, the Force (and a busy filming schedule) had other ideas. 🎬 Why Oscar Isaac Won’t Be Touching Down in Tokyo According to a recent update from the event’s official team, Oscar Isaac has officially canceled his appearance at Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025. The reason? Filming obligations. Translation: he’s out there somewhere, probably in a galaxy equally chaotic, but more rooted in earthly studio deadlines. There’s no word yet on what project has pulled him away (Marvel? Sci-fi noir? A surprise musical about droids?), but the announcement confirms it’s not due to illness or other personal issues—just work calling at hyperspeed. 💬 The Official Word from Star Wars Celebration…
Celebrating Julian Glover at 90: The Man Who Faced Vader, Indy, and a Giant Spider
Turning 90 is a milestone by any measure. But turning 90 after spending decades portraying some of the most iconic characters in cinema and television history? That’s the Julian Glover way. Today, we celebrate the legendary British actor who, over the course of his career, has managed to get crushed by Darth Vader, outwitted by Indiana Jones, betrayed by a magical cup, and voice a spider that made an entire generation deeply uncomfortable with forests. Not bad for someone whose IMDb reads like a geek culture tour. 🛡️ General Veers: Calm Under (AT-AT) Fire Let’s start with the galaxy far, far away. Glover made his Star Wars debut as General Maximilian Veers in The Empire Strikes Back (1980). While he only had a handful of scenes, they were unforgettable. In a world where most Imperial officers got Force-choked just for clearing their throats wrong, Veers stood out. Calm, efficient, and…
Clive Revill, the Original Voice of Emperor Palpatine, Passes Away at 93
Clive Revill, a distinguished actor with a career spanning decades, has died at the age of 93. Best known to many in the Star Wars community for voicing Emperor Palpatine in the original 1980 version of The Empire Strikes Back, Revill’s passing marks the end of a chapter in cinematic history. TMZ confirmed his death on March 27, 2025, citing natural causes. The actor died peacefully in Los Angeles, leaving behind a legacy that extended far beyond a single role, but forever etched into the lore of a galaxy far, far away. A Key Voice in Star Wars History Revill’s role in The Empire Strikes Back was relatively brief, yet pivotal. Before Ian McDiarmid became synonymous with Emperor Palpatine in later films, it was Revill’s voice—layered over a visually altered portrayal—that introduced audiences to the Emperor for the first time. Appearing via hologram to Darth Vader, the character’s eerie presence…