While it’s impossible to know the future, no one could have ever guessed the monster success of 1977’s Star Wars. Not only did it smash box office records, but it also changed the world of merchandising as the toys and products released off the back of the film flew off the shelves and began an awakening of merch that continues to this day.
Watch here as 20th Century Fox executive Mark Pebbers talks about that incredible torrent of merchandise.
Following the success of “Star Wars” in 1977, the film’s studio worked to capitalize on the movie’s popularity with a variety of products. A few months after the film was released, News 8’s Jesse Macias reported that it had already been seen by 40 million people. Jesse spoke to an executive at 20th Century Fox Mark Pebbers about the “Star Wars” merchandise on the shelves and in the works. Mark showed off masks and t-shirts and talked about other items including bubble gum cards, children costumes, a digital watch, board games including “Escape from the Death Star,” puzzles and even a “Star Wars” toothbrush.
Mark told News 8 “Star Wars” would probably never be seen on television “because the picture will lose too much of its visual quality on the small TV screen.”
- Continue Cal’s Journey - No longer a Padawan, Cal has come into his own and grown into a powerful Jedi Knight.
- Go Beyond Your Training – The cinematic combat system returns with additional Force abilities and new lightsaber fighting styles.
- Explore an Untamed Galaxy – Discover new planets and familiar frontiers in the Star Wars galaxy, each with unique challenges, and enemies.
- The Dark Times are closing in – with enemies surrounding him, Cal will need to decide how far he’s willing to go to save those closest to him.
- English (Subtitle)
