Skywalking Through Neverland: A Star Wars / Disney Podcast

Just when we thought we found all the actors who’ve played Darth Vader, another emerges. Tom Bewley was the first actor to portray the Dark Lord of the Sith on screen after Return of the Jedi. He appeared in the Frank Oz-directed 1985 film, The Indian in the Cupboard. In his very first podcast interview, Tom opens up with never-before-heard stories from behind the mask. He shares what it was like stepping into Vader’s boots for The Indian in the Cupboard, his duel with the Energizer Bunny in a now-legendary commercial, memories from the Star Wars 10th Anniversary convention preshow with George Lucas, and plenty more surprises. TODAY in Star Wars History 9/16/1977 48 years ago... ABC aired The Making of Star Wars as Told by C-3PO and R2-D2, an hour-long special hosted by R2-D2 and Anthony Daniels as C-3PO. Coming in the same month as Donny & Marie, Richard Pryor, and Saturday morning Star Wars previews, the special stood out by placing R2 and 3PO in a futuristic Star Wars setting to share behind-the-sce

Have you, like us, been eagerly awaiting the Star Wars Marvel comics issue that introduces the telepathic, energy-eating Hoojibs?Join us and our special guests in a breakdown of Marvel’s 1981 comic Star Wars #55: “Plif!” — one of the most beloved issues from the original Marvel Star Wars run. You can also listen and read along in 1983’s read-along record Planet of the Hoojibs Read Along Storybook. Recorded live from Rebel Scum Con, this special presentation features special guests Anna Graves (voice of Duchess Satine Kryze in The Clone Wars) and Jeff Caffrey (VCN Network), who bring the story to life with dramatic flair.  Don’t worry if you don’t have the comic — the vibrant art by Walt Simonson and Tom Palmer will be projected for all to enjoy. Today in Star Wars History - September 7, 1985 Happy 40th Anniversary to Ewoks and Droids! Both animated series premiered on September 7, 1985, as The Ewoks and Droids Adventure Hour on ABC-TV. We've even had executive producer Miki Herman on the show to dive into t

In Part 4 of our Rebel Scum Con experience, we go behind the scenes with MORE talented artists who gave life to a few of our favorite Star Wars characters. We sat down with Toby Philpott, one of the puppeteers behind the massive Jabba the Hutt. From controlling Jabba's grotesque expressions to (maybe?) licking Princess Leia, his stories from the set are not only fascinating but filled with tips and tricks for any aspiring puppeteers out there. Next up, Femi Taylor, who played the ill-fated (but always fabulous) Oola, shares her experience on the set of RETURN OF THE JEDI. She dives into what it was like returning to the role years later and how the character still connects with fans today.. And if that wasn’t cool enough, Howie Weed gives us a detailed look at his time inside the suit of the terrifying Wampa, and shares his experience with George Lucas directing! Howie even drops a hint or two about the Wampa’s survival odds after that little run-in with Luke Skywalker. Each guest was incredibly generous

The Rebel Scum Con fun continues! In this episode, we're serving up double Wedge and a dash of Watto for your Star Wars enjoyment.   First up, we’re honored to be joined by Denis Lawson, the legendary actor who portrayed Wedge Antilles in the original trilogy and returned in The Rise of Skywalker. He shares stories from set and reflects on Mark Hamill's hug in the galaxy far, far away.   But wait—there's more Wedge to go around! We’re also joined by David Ankrum, the voice of Wedge in A New Hope, who helped bring the iconic pilot to life. And did you know Wedge makes a subtle appearance in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story? We’ll reveal exactly where to hear him.   And it wouldn’t be a proper celebration without a visit from one of the galaxy’s most unforgettable hustlers—Watto himself! Andy Secombe, who voiced the junk dealer in The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones, stops by for a spirited game of Chance. And no surprise, there’s a bit of funny business going on. Sorry, Watto!   Rebel Scum Con, hel

Are you ready to hear from some great Star Wars artists? At Rebel Scum Con, we had the amazing opportunity to connect with four talented artists who are not only passionate about Star Wars, but also masters of their craft. These creators opened up about their inspirations, creative journeys, and the unique processes behind their work. Each artist also gave us a personal tour of their booth, offering a closer look at the artwork that brings the galaxy far, far away to life. You'll hear directly from:   Jason W. Christman – known for his bold, graphic style and minimalist takes on iconic Star Wars moments.   Brian DeGuire – blending classic design with an in-universe propaganda twist.   Tom Hodges – known for his Star Wars Universe Park Map, well before the announcement of Galaxy’s Edge.   Spencer Brinkerhoff III – bringing a playful and vibrant approach to the Star Wars universe with his imaginative illustrations and entrepreneurial spirit.   The convention, held August 8-10, 2025 is a fan-run even

We just got back from the 2nd annual Rebel Scum Con in Frisco, TX, and had an absolute blast! This was the most productive convention we’ve ever been to! Not only did we host two panels, but we also had the opportunity to speak with many Star Wars alumni, from actors to artists.    The convention, held August 8-10, 2025 is a fan-run event, which means the organizers knew exactly what we wanted! Throughout the next month we will share ALL that content, so in this episode you’ll hear from:   Omid Abtahi (Dr. Pershing in THE MANDALORIAN) Eric Walker (the original Mace in THE EWOK ADVENTURE films) Dermot Crowley (General Madine in RETURN OF THE JEDI)   TODAY in Star Wars History 8/12/1980   Once Upon A Galaxy: A Journal of the Making of The Empire Strikes Back, by Alan Arnold, is published by Del Rey.This paperback book includes a journal into the day-to-day making of The Empire Strikes Back, interviews with the cast and crew, and behind-the-scenes photos.       SPONSORS   Small World Vacations is a

Ladies and gentlemen, for the first time at San-Diego Comic-Con: GEORGE LUCAS!!!!   On Sunday 7/27/2025, George Lucas along with Lucasfilm's senior vice president and executive design director Doug Chiang and filmmaker Guillermo del Toro were guests at a highly anticipated panel highlighting the upcoming Lucas Museum of Narrative Art! The panel was expertly moderated by Queen Latifah.   Co-founded by George Lucas and Mellody Hobson, the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art will be the world’s first institution dedicated to the exploration of narrative art, celebrating illustrated storytelling across eras and cultures, from ancient cave drawings and children’s book illustrations to comic books and digital media.     The panel marked one of the most talked about and widely attended sessions in Comic-Con history, drawing over 6,000 on the final day of the convention. And we were there! We will play and discuss favorite quotes from each of the panelists, and give our opinions on the panel.   View the Full Panel:

The next big Star Wars convention is just around the corner. We go behind-the-scenes and reveal what we are doing at Rebel Scum Con! This year marks the 2nd annual RSC held August 8-10th, 2025 in Frisco, TX, and we have convention coordinators Ken Tucky and Bobby Roberston on to get us hyped. Even if you’re not attending, this episode has plenty of fun Star Wars discussions.   We discuss the special guests including the first U.S. appearance of Kyle Soller (Syril in Andor), Robert Emms aka #HotLonniSummer (Lonni in Andor), The Sackhoff Show with Katee Sackhoff (Bo-Katan in The Mandalorian), and more guests from Andor.    Our friends at The Virtual Cantina Network are putting on Boonta Eve with Star Wars Live Band and Karaoke on the first night of the convention - August 8th, where we will also be selling our books. Tickets are available now.   Episode discussion links: Rebel Scum Con Boonta Eve details “You Rebel Scum” actor Barrie Holland interview   TODAY in Star Wars History 7/5/2017   Walt Disn

Star Wars and Coca-Cola go back as far as the original film releases in 1977 when they collaborated with Burger King for their collectible posters and drinking glasses. Now Coca-Cola and Star Wars join forces once again with the new promotion - “Refresh Your Galaxy!”.    There are new cans and bottles with beautiful red, white, and black Star Wars character art, and a new commercial filled with Easter eggs (you know how much we love easter eggs!). We invited laughingplace.com’s Mike Celestino (Who’s the Bossk?) and Rebekah Moseley to join us as we deep dive for a commercial commentary and the announcement press event held at Galaxy’s Edge.   Episode discussion links: Coca-Cola x Star Wars: Refresh Your Galaxy NEW Coca-Cola x Star Wars Collaboration – Product Reveal Interviews: NEW Coca-Cola x Star Wars Collaboration Coca-Cola x Star Wars: Refresh Your Galaxy - Laughing Place On Location   TODAY in Star Wars History 7/5/1948   Happy 77th Birthday to William Hootkins!William Hootkins played X-wing

Are you ready to hear some ridiculous Star Wars rumors from the early ‘70’s and ‘80’s? Things like Luke, Han & Chewbacca warping through time to fight in the Clone Wars, and Darth Bane appearing in the prequels played by Christopher Walken!? There are so many fun rumors planted by our friend Craig Miller - the mastermind of early rumors working at Lucasfilm.    This episode is recorded from a panel we hosted at LosCon 2022. Up until now it was just available for the Skywalking Force, now we will share it with the world. Joining us on the panel was Kevin Toft and Max Cervantes from the Max EFX podcast, as well as our friend Craig Miller (Lucasfilm, Fan Relations). Unfortunately we did not video record this Loscon panel so we just added in lots of pictures. Enjoy   TODAY in Star Wars History 7/1/1935   Happy 90th birthday (posthumous) to David Prowse. David Prowse portrayed Darth Vader in the original Star Wars Trilogy. He reprised the role in Star Wars: The Interactive Video Board Game (1996) and Mon

We waited 50 years to the date that JAWS premiered (June 20, 1975) to put out this episode.    We celebrate this anniversary with special guest Mike Celestino (Laughing Place / Who’s the Bossk podcast) by sharing our personal stories and fun facts of the film’s legacy. From JAWS music (da-DUM!) to merchandise (who wore the Shark costume that Halloween?), behind-the-scenes tidbits (who is this “Bruce” the shark was named after?) and YOUR personal experiences with this special film. Everyone has a JAWS story. What’s yours?   TODAY in Star Wars History 6/17/1986   39 years ago…   The final issue of Marvel's Star Wars comic series ends with issue #107: "All Together Now."  To end a galactic invasion the Rebels, along with new allies, plan to capture Prince Serono with hopes that his people, the Tof, will surrender. After a battle in the palace where a traitor has helped the Rebels defeat the Prince and Dark Lady Lumiya to stop the invasion, Luke expresses hope in the future.    SPONSORS   Small World

Voice actress Anna Graves IS Duchess Satine, and she joins Richard and Sarah to share stories from THE CLONE WARS recording sessions. We are so excited to welcome her to Skywalking Through Neverland!! Our conversation covered so many topics. How did Anna and James Arnold Taylor develop their chemistry between Obi-Wan and Satine? How did Dave Filoni run the recording sessions? Who was the voice of Maul during *that* fateful episode for Satine? How would Anna voice her very own Ewok? Anna also voices Teckla Minnau, Jedi Masters Tiplar & Tiplee from THE CLONE WARS, and Princess Leia in Disney Infinity. You know Sarah had questions about that!    You can meet Anna “Duchess” Graves at the Boonta Eve Special Edition signing on August 8th in Frisco Texas, during Rebel Scum Con.   TODAY in Star Wars History 6/10/1997   Let the Wookiee win, or at least get a medal. And he did! Carrie Fisher presented Chewbacca with ‘The Lifetime Achievement Award’ at the MTV Movie Awards.    SPONSORS   Small World Vacati

This episode marks the HALFWAY point in the original Classic Marvel Star Wars series that ran from 1977-1986! We break down Issue 54: “STARFIRE RISING” from September 1981, which serves as a continuation of repurposed JOHN CARTER, WARLORD OF MARS artwork created for the cancelled comic series. Not wanting to waste unused artwork which was done by the same artists as the Star Wars series, Chris Claremont was brought in to write a new Star Wars story based on that existing art. Then Walter Simonson adapted art to fit these issues 53 and 54, and Viola you have new Star Wars!    We are not sure why this issue is called STARFIRE RISING, but it should have been called CRUSH ON LEIA, since the story revolves around Aron Peacebringer (John Carter) having an existential crisis over his adulterous thoughts on Princess Leia. You can tell the moment the art switches from repurposed John Carter to Star Wars towards the end of the issue. Please enjoy.   Today in Star Wars History - May 29, 2019   After a thirty-three

We are very excited to have back on the show James Kahn, author of the New York Times best-selling Return of the Jedi novelization. Also on his resume - he has resuscitated a dying extraterrestrial (E.T.) and saved many humans as an ER doctor IRL. Kahn’s writing career blossomed from writing the novelizations of Goonies, Poltergeist, and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, to writing on TV shows Melrose Place, Star Trek: Voyager & a sitcom E/R with actor George Clooney (NOT ER!).    James just released My Jedi Memoir: A Double Life, an autobiography that uses the hero’s journey in his Jedi novelization to outline the phases of his own life. It’s a fascinating read available now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. We loved reconnecting with James and encourage you to read his book.   THIS WEEK in Star Wars History 5/19 - 5/25   May 19th - 26th Anniversary of The Phantom Menace   May 19th - 20th anniversary of Revenge of the Sith   May 21st - 45th Anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back   May

Christopher Sean, voice of Kazuda Xiono from Star Wars Resistance, joins us to discuss this last and final arc of Andor Season 2. In particular, we discuss character motivations and scenes, such as Dedra’s gleeful confrontation with Luthen, Krennic’s brutally weird interrogation of Dedra, and Cassian’s subtle nod to the Force healer as he takes his final walk into Rogue One.  Christopher also gives us insight into the audition process for Star Wars Resistance, and what he brought to the character - you may even hear Kaz’s voice! He also shared a great story about recording in person with Oscar Isaac (voice of Poe Dameron).  Christopher will be signing at Boonta Eve Special Edition right before Rebel Scum Con this coming August. Richard and Sarah (we) will also be in attendance - come join us! Episodes we break down: E10: Make it Stop E11: Who Else Knows? E12: Jedha, Kyber, Erso   Today in Star Wars History 5/14/1944   The birth day of the maker himself - George Lucas! Today he celebrates his 81st

THUNDERBOLTS* was just released on May 2nd, and Richard and Sarah are excited to break down this movie! We get into details such as character relationships and history, our expectations vs. reality, any nitpicks, and why this film is the INSIDE OUT 2 of the Marvel universe. And what about Bob? How does he fit in, and what did we think of his character and possible relationship with Yelena??   We are happy to say that the film is off to a strong start at the box office. Over the weekend it grossed $74 million, and it currently has an 88% Fresh rating with critics at Rotten Tomatoes.    Today in Star Wars History 5/6/1964   Happy 61st Birthday to Lars Mikkelsen! Lars Mikkelsen, voiced Grand Admiral Thrawn in Star Wars Rebels ,then went on to play the live-action character in Ahsoka.    SPONSORS   Small World Vacations is an official sponsor of Skywalking Through Neverland. Contact them for a no obligation price quote at www.smallworldvacations.com. Tell them Skywalking Through Neverland sent you.  

Convention season is now in full swing. Next up - Comic Con Revolution (CCR)! Programming director David Nieves joins us to discuss what goes into putting on a pop culture convention. What were our first convention experiences? San Diego Comic Con was first for some, while others were relegated to a single banquet room at the local Sheraton Hotel (looking at you Richard). If you ever dreamed of working at a con, David gives tips on how you can make that happen.    David tells us about a NEW feature for this year’s CCR. Attendees will have an opportunity to experience a special pop up with Trapped Escape Room. In The Henchmen's Heist, you and your crew are aspiring villains! You join Madame Graffiti's band of art thieves. The mission? To steal as many pieces of art as possible from the world-famous Lumina Museum at their annual Spectrum Gala.    Along with the many superstars and escape room, we will also be there with TWO of our Trivia party game shows. Sunday May 18th we will host our Pop Culture Trivia

Star Wars Celebration Japan gave us Loth Kittens, Shadow Lords, Grogu and Gosling, and so much more. We are still processing all the big announcements and surprises, so we brought on a special guest. Our good friend B.J. Priester (Hyperspace Theories/Fangirl Blog) shares his experiences at the Main Stage, the merchandise store, and he helps us break down and analyze all the Star Wars reveals. What were you most excited about?  Topics discussed: MANDALORIAN AND GROGU Why wasn’t there a Lucasfilm Showcase panel? Footage described in detail STAR WARS: STARFIGHTER Is this the DEADPOOL of Star Wars with director Shawn Levy?? AHSOKA Season 2 Lothballs! (Loth Kittens) Baylan Scoll recasting Thrawn vs. Admiral Ackbar Updates to SMUGGLER’S RUN: Mandalorian and Grogu version Let’s flip this switch! They are testing this version right now in Disneyland!! ANDOR Season 2 It’s here! LFL 20th Anniversary Animation Panel - MAUL: SHADOW LORD Footage discussed in detail Highlights Merchandise

  We break down and review the first 3 ANDOR Season 2 episodes, with a special focus on the “Dinner Party from Hell!” with Dedra Meero, Syril Karn, and his mom the emotionally abusive Eedy. Actors Denise Gough (Dedra) and Kyle Soller (Syril) coined “Dinner Party from Hell” at Star Wars Celebration Japan, and there is no better description. This truly relatable “meet the in-laws” dinner speaks to the entire series, as ANDOR is full of relatable moments juxtaposed with galaxy-altering events. Mon Mothma consoles her daughter while Luthen Rael ruthlessly protects information vital to the upstart Rebels. B2 plays tag with kids while Cassian inadvertently finds a new base for the burgeoning Rebellion.   Episodes we break down:   E1: One Year Later E2: Sagrona Teema E3: Harvest   Today in Star Wars History 4/21/1980   The Empire Strikes Back Original Motion Picture Soundtrack by John Williams, was released. Before the film’s release the album had already sold three million copies. The soundtrack spends

Bryce Eller, the man behind all the Darth Vader TV appearances and the official Vader meet and greets at local department stores, gives us exclusive stories of his time on many TV variety shows and live meet and greet engagements.  As a companion piece to my article, Star Wars x 1970’s Variety TV, I talk with Bryce to fill in details you won’t find anywhere else. Bryce appeared on Midnight Special with Wolfman Jack, Donny and Marie, The Wacko Saturday Preview and Other Good Stuff Special, and Kaptain Kool and the Kongs Present ABC All-Star Saturday!  We also go into voicing Darth Vader for these shows, perfecting the Vader walk, and the time he was hit on at a wrap party by a woman who wanted to turn Darth Vader to the deep dark side.  Bryce made his Skywalking debut on the two part episodes - 236 and 237. But little did we know then, there were even more stories to tell.