Mark Hamill Reflects on 'Star Wars' Timeless Legacy and Devoted Fans Nearly 50 Years Later: ‘They're Family' (Exclusive)
Almost 50 years after the Star Warsfranchise began with A New Hope (originally just called Star Wars) in 1977, legendary Luke Skywalker actor Mark Hamillreflects on the timelessness of the movies, particularly as it relates to his recent partnership with the LEGO Group, as well as his love for the franchise's fans.
Hamill and the LEGO Group have just collaborated to bring new LEGO Star Wars SMART Play to fans of the iconic brick sets and the galaxy far, far away. This innovative new product allows for a more interactive form of play, which Hamill shared is one of the best things about them.
"I think one of the coolest things about the LEGO Star Wars SMART Play sets is that there's no right or wrong way to play with them. It never gets boring. The sets invite people to playfully reinterpret them, and the interaction is something everyone will love," Hamill said.
This also connects directly to the timelessness of both the Star Wars franchise and the LEGO company, in Hamill's view.
"The movies are timeless. You know, there isn't really anything identifiable, clothes, cars, to a specific time period. And LEGO bricks are timeless. People old and young keep finding their way to the movies, and every generation can sit together and play with LEGO SMART Play," he said.
Part of this partnership between Hamill and the LEGO Group also included a special "Ask Mark" opportunity, through which fans could call in and ask Hamill directly about these sets.
Of the Star Wars fanbase, Hamill said, "The fans have always been incredibly supportive and loyal. If it weren't for them, I would be nowhere. I love them dearly. They're more than just fans; they're family. And it's exciting to connect in this way through the LEGO brand, which is such a fun thing to talk about because it brings out the kid in everyone."
For Hamill, that playfulness has never gone away. Now, there's even a brand-new layer to that fun, childlike spirit, as he's also been made the Junior Executive Director of Information (JEDI) for the LEGO Group.
"I never outgrew my love of toys, and when the opportunity came up to work with the LEGO Group as their Junior Executive Director of Information and help answer questions about LEGO Star Wars sets with LEGO SMART Play, it just seemed like a natural fit. Even the title they gave me is so great," he said.
Unlike with Star Wars Jedi, there's no JEDI Code. For him, it's just about bringing fun to all.
"No code, but I do know quite a bit about imagination, and I just want to help everyone unlock their full creativity and have fun with the sets," Hamill said.
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This story was originally published April 14, 2026 at 8:35 AM.