GENERATION SKYWALKER: A STAR WARS PODCAST

In this episode we’re joined by Skye Paine, long-time Chewbacca focus collector, curator of The Chewseum, and host of the Star Wars Collectors Archive’s: Chive Cast Podcast. We explore Skye’s journey into Star Wars collecting, how Chewbacca became his focus, and the incredible collection he’s built over the years. We chat about focus collecting, his production and pre-production runs, the stories behind some of his most fascinating pieces, as well as his involvement with the SWCA and the story of how the Chive Cast came to be.  Join us for Part 1 of our Chewbacca coverage this month, in this special Chewbacca-themed conversation on Generation Skywalker as we get to know Skye as we prepare to take a deep dive into the figure.

In this very special instalment of Bantha Tracking, Dan and Jez continue their journey through the early history of Star Wars fandom as they explore issue 5 of the Official Star Wars Fan Club Newsletter. And this time, we’re joined by a very special guest! Craig Miller, editor of the first nine issues of the newsletter and Director of Fan Relations at Lucasfilm from 1977 to 1980. Craig joins us to share his memories and insights from the early days of the Official Star Wars Fan Club, his role at Lucasfilm during this period, and to help us look back at issue 5 of the newsletter he wrote 48 years ago. Issue 5 features Craig’s interview with The Empire Strikes Back director Irvin Kershner, along with a behind-the-scenes production update on the eagerly anticipated sequel. We also discover the winner of the newsletter’s comic competition and hear all about their incredible prize: a trip to Elstree Studios and a visit to the set of The Empire Strikes Back! Plus, there’s plenty more to uncover as we turn another page in the history of early Star Wars fandom, in the company of the man who was putting it all together. Join us, along with Craig Miller, for another fascinating trip back in time — one newsletter at a time. Craig’s book “Star Wars Memories: My Time in the (Death Star) Trenches is available now on Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/0ikpCXDY Follow Generation Skywalker on instagram https://amzn.eu/d/0ikpCXDY and facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/19XAX6qAJU/?mibextid=wwXIfr 

This episode, Those Old Fossils continues its series exploring the pilots of the Millennium Falcon, turning the spotlight onto one of the most iconic characters in the original Star Wars trilogy — Han Solo — and Kenner’s vintage 3¾-inch action figure from 1978. One of the original 12 figures released in the first wave of Kenner’s Star Wars toy line, Han Solo quickly became an essential part of countless childhood collections and remains a must-have for vintage Star Wars collectors today. With regular guests Ron Salvatore from the Star Wars Collectors Archive and Mark Andrews from Variant Villains, the team debates the merits of the small-head and large-head variants, exploring the figure’s development, design and sculpt, and what made Kenner’s interpretation of the galaxy’s most famous smuggler such an enduring classic. Beyond the 3¾-inch figure, we also look at the 12-inch large-size action figure, the role playing version of Han’s iconic blaster and other beyond the toys collectibles related to the character. The discussion also covers international releases, packaging variations and current market prices, offering plenty for seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. Whether you remember Han Solo as the coolest character in the galaxy, owned the original figure back in 1978, or are still hunting for that elusive mint example, this episode celebrates a true legend of the vintage Star Wars toy line.

In this instalment of Bantha Tracking, Dan and Jez continue their journey through the early history of Star Wars fandom as they explore the fourth issue of the Official Star Wars Fan Club Newsletter, published in September 1978. This issue features a look at the career of producer Gary Kurtz, charting his work to date and his role producing Star Wars. We discuss Kurtz’s post Star Wars career and his role in bringing the original film and its sequel to the screen- and why he didn’t return for the third instalment. There’s also some major Star Wars news, as the newsletter reveals the title of the second Star Wars movie—The Empire Strikes Back. We look back at this early announcement and the excitement surrounding the next chapter of the saga, nearly two years before the film would eventually arrive in cinemas. AND the Newsletter is finally christened with its new title when the results of the “name the newsletter” contest is revealed. We also put the Generation Skywalker crew to the test with a Star Wars trivia quiz based on the contents of the newsletter. Just how well do Jez and the rest of the crew know their Star Wars trivia? There’s only one way to find out! featuring a complete audio presentation of issue 4 of the newsletter, join us as we continue our look at the history of early Star Wars fandom—one newsletter at a time.

In this episode, we’re joined by Dave Tree, organiser of the long-running Farthest From event, and Mark Newbold from Fantha Tracks to discuss the upcoming Thank the Maker event. Taking place in Winchester this October, the third Thank the Maker is celebrating the 10th anniversary of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. The event brings together people who worked behind the scenes on the film for a series intimate panels on the making of movie, offering attendees a unique opportunity to hear first-hand stories about the making of Star Wars. Dave discusses the event’s origins, his decision to bring Farthest From to a close (for now), and what fans can expect from Thank The Maker, including sharing a rundown of the 17 guests lined up for the event. Thank the Maker takes place at St Swithun’s School in Winchester on Saturday 17 October 2026. Tickets: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thankthemaker/2305678 Event information: https://thankthemaker.co.uk

In this instalment of Bantha Tracking, Dan and Jez explore the third issue of the Official Star Wars Fan Club Newsletter from July 1978. This issue features an interview with Luke Skywalker himself, Mark Hamill, as he shares memories of his experience working on Star Wars—including how a friend, who would later become an icon in his own right, told Mark about the part and encouraged him to audition. He also shares his thoughts on working with Carrie Fisher and Harrison Ford, as well as his hopes for his future career and more. We also take a look at this issues  Q&A section, where Lucasfilm answers questions from fans eager to learn more about the galaxy far, far away. Plus, we continue the previous episodes look at “Between the Script and the Projector” with Part Two of the article  examining the journey after casting as competed through  to the film arriving in cinemas on 25th May 1977.  Along with a complete audio presentation of issue 3 of the newsletter,  join us as we continue our look at the history of early Star Wars fandom—one newsletter at a time.

This episode, Those Old Fossils begins a brand-new series exploring the pilots of the Millennium Falcon, and to kick things off we’re looking at ship itself- Kenner’s vintage Millennium Falcon from 1979. Widely regarded as one of the most iconic vehicles in the original Star Wars toy line, the Falcon became the centrepiece of countless childhood collections and remains a cornerstone of vintage Star Wars collecting today. Ron Salvatore from the Star Wars Collectors Archive returns to share his expertise on the toy’s development, design, play features, Zendaya and it's lasting appeal  The team  explore what made the Falcon such a special release and why it continues to be one of the most beloved items in the Kenner range. The discussion also covers international releases, packaging variations, current market prices, and related Falcon items, including the die-cast  and Micro Collection versions, as well as where the Falcon featured beyond the toys. Whether you owned one as a child or still have one proudly displayed on your shelf, this episode celebrates a true classic of the vintage Star Wars line.

In Episode 2 of Bantha Tracking, Dan and Jez explore the second issue of the Official Star Wars Fan Club Newsletter, capturing the excitement of Star Wars fandom in 1978. Alongside a complete audio presentation of Newsletter Volume 1, Number 2, they discuss Star Wars’ 1978 Oscar wins, sequel developments, the “Name the Newsletter” competition as well as its prizes, cover the regular Q&A section, plus  more. Join us as we continue to our look at  how Lucasfilm connected with fans long before the internet, conventions, and social media.—one newsletter at a time.

In this episode of Those Old Fossils, Palitoy Pete, Martin, Dan and Jez are joined by Mark Andrews from Variant Villains turn their attention to two 1984 releases from the vintage Return of the Jedi line — the mighty Rancor and the Rancor Keeper. The Rancor is one of the most distinctive and visually impressive creatures in the vintage Star Wars range, and the team explore why it has remained a popular piece for collectors more than forty years later. From childhood memories and play value to loose and boxed collecting, this episode is a celebration of one of Kenner’s most memorable creature releases. Naturally, the conversation also turns to the Rancor Keeper. While the character is an essential part of Jabba’s palace, the figure itself has never exactly enjoyed the same legendary status as the beast it serves. The Fossils discuss whether this chunky fella deserves a little more appreciation than it usually receives. Ron Salvatore from the SWCA returns with another fascinating segment, sharing his insights into the history and significance of both releases within the wider world of vintage Star Wars collecting. Whether you’re a lifelong Rancor fan, or simply enjoy hearing vintage Star Wars enthusiasts debate the highs and lows of the Kenner line, this episode is packed with nostalgia, collecting chat, expert insight, and plenty of good-humoured Fossils discussion.

Following on from last years Committee on the First 12 action figures, the Committee returns to debate the final wave of vintage Star Wars action figures- the legendary Last 17. Stuart, Martin, Dan, Pete and Jez each pick their top ten from Kenner’s 1985 wave of  Star Wars figures, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of every contender before Stuart reveals the official Generation Skywalker ranking. Listen to the full debate and countdown.