Rebel Force Radio: Star Wars Podcast

Not only will we be getting more STAR WARS at Disney Parks in 2019, we'll be getting booze! For the first time ever, alcoholic beverages will be made available at Disneyland...And they will be Star Wars-inspired! We look at the adult beverage menu for STAR WARS: GALAXY'S EDGE and consider how they tie-in to the Star Wars universe. Spoiler Alert! We review recently leaked EPISODE IX poster art and rumored details about characters, planets, and aliens in THE MANDALORIAN. We have highlights from Samuel L. Jackson's new 60 Minutes interview where he talks about Mace Windu and his purple lightsaber. Adam Goldberg's "Schooled" paid tribute to THE PHANTOM MENACE. We review the new ABC comedy episode "Darth Mellor" in STAR WARS IN POP CULTURE. Plus, Conan O'Brien recently had a few hilarious things to say about the taxation of trade routes in EPISODE I, and more.

The Jedi Yogi, our friend John Marcoux returns to RFR to provide us with his take on the famous Mortis Trilogy. John references his massive knowledge bank of mythology and history and applies it to his review of one of the most revered story arcs from STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS. We continue our review of the amazing Haslab Jabba's Sail Barge collectible and look back at the crazy Jabba Glob toy from the late-90s. Mark Hamill stopped by Jimmy Kimmel Live this week for a fun interview and despite Mark being there to promote History Channel's "Knightfall", the discussion inevitably turns to STAR WARS. We pick apart everything Mark says in a quest for clues about STAR WARS EPISODE IX. In video game news, STAR WARS BATTLEFRONT II "The Chosen One" update recently went live and CLONE WARS actor Matt Lanter returned to the role of Anakin Skywalker to provide his voice for the game. We listen to Matt recreate an infamous Hayden Christensen line from ATTACK OF THE CLONES. Plus, in the wake of St. Patrick's Day, we continue to fill in the list of actors from Ireland seen in STAR WARS films and more stuff.

Oscar Isaac is hitting the talk show circuit promoting his new Netflix film, but everyone wants to hear him talk about STAR WARS EPISODE IX. We review the talking points Oscar has been throwing out there in interviews and analyze what he's saying about the film, most notably, the end of the Skywalker Saga. We're celebrating St. Patrick's Day Star Wars style as Jason quizzes us on Irish actors in the saga. The fallout from the Jedi Coup d'etat debate continues on the RFR Voice Mail Hotline, and we have audio from Dave Filoni and the REVENGE OF THE SITH audiobook to present as evidence. Plus, new info about the opening of STAR WARS: GALAXY'S EDGE from Bob Iger, Star Wars Resistance Season One winds down, Saw Guerrera, and Shorty Robe Luke.

Mark Hamill is again expressing opinion, perhaps some of his strongest ever, about the use of his character Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars sequel trilogy. We review his comments and offer opinions of our own. Jason is back to sit on the judge's bench and Billy Mac returns for the conclusion of our Mace vs Palpatine coup d'etat debate. Plus, we reveal the new Star Wars product reveals from Toy Fair 2019, including Hasbro's upcoming controversial reproduction of the original vintage action figure line from the 70s and 80s, Oscar Isaac talks about Episode IX, and Mr. Iger once again calls the RFR voicemail hotline.

EPISODE IX filming is complete and J.J. Abrams made his first comments since the shooting wrapped at a recent charity event. We analyze what J.J. had to say and dive deep into STAR WARS references from the Abrams-produced ABC series "Lost". Is anxiety for the reveals of the Episode IX title and trailer getting to be a little tiresome? We discuss! Also, we review recent interview highlights with Episode IX newcomers Naomi Ackley and Richard E. Grant. Star Wars actors and references populated the Academy Awards this year and we rundown everything we noticed in the network broadcast of the show. STAR WARS ALWAYS is an amazing new trailer compiling footage from every Star Wars film, and we provide a full review of this Topher Grace/Jeff Yorkes produced tribute to the Saga. The RFR Voice Mail Hotline is packed with great listener feedback leading us to discuss and debate such diverse topics like The Clone Wars revival, Episode IX speculation, the Mace Windu/Palpatine confrontation from REVENGE OF THE SITH and more.

STAR WARS EPISODE IX speculation is kicking in to full gear here at RFR. This week, the spotlight shines on the RFR Voice Mail Hotline and we go heavy with listener feedback. The biggest questions: Will Darth Sidious return? Was Kylo Ren lying to Rey about her parents? Who is (was) Snoke? Our audience guides the conversation on this week's show as Billy Mac sits in as special guest co-host. With rumors about multiple new STAR WARS live-action series for the upcoming Disney+ streaming service burning like wildfire, we run down some of the rumors and talk about a few we'd like to see. Plus, RFR returns to Twitter, RFR LIVE in CHICAGO tickets go on sale, and more.

STAR WARS EPISODE IX character reference photos leaked to Reddit this week. We review all the pictures with a very critical eye and talk about what we like...And what we don't. SPOILER ALERT! We get caught up with the newest rumors about Episode IX and discuss in detail, including teases about a new evil foe. Friend of the show Chris "From Cleveland" Marinin sits in for this episode and we get into deep speculation about what to expect in final chapter of "The Skywalker Saga", and debate how elements from the old EXPANDED UNIVERSE could be used in the film. The RFR Voicemail hotline once again gets us talking about crying while watching Star Wars. We recall our emotional responses to the saga, and look back at a magical moment that brought us to tears during a George Lucas panel at Star Wars Celebration III, with audio highlights.

STAR WARS: EPISODE IX info is greatly anticipated by fans. Many thought we would have seen the trailer and learned the title of the film by now. When will it drop? We give you our guesses, as well as discussion about the latest title rumor for Episode IX. This week, Bob Iger addressed Disney investors with his first quarter update. Hear what he had to say about the upcoming Disney Plus streaming service and STAR WARS: GALAXY'S EDGE. A long lost Mark Hamill interview from 1986 was recently unearthed and we have highlights. Plus, connections between Star Wars and The Grateful Dead, The RFR Voice Mail Hotline is open and our listeners bring some great topics to the table like what would we like to see from a future Star Wars animated series and more.

The STAR WARS EPISODE IX rumors are getting more hardcore and more outrageous. We take a look at some of the wild online rumors as shooting winds down and speculation heats up. Billy Mac sits in for the full show and as a Star Wars Celebration veteran, he offers some tips and opinions on time management at the convention. Puppet Lando also makes an appearance...This time, courtesy of a very loyal RFR listener. We all remember the line from STAR WARS: A NEW HOPE: "If you strike me down, I shall become more powerful than you can possibly imagine". Was Obi-Wan exaggerating? Or did he achieve the power he predicted after Vader struck him down. We pick it apart and consider the ramifications of that statement and how it can effect EPISODE IX. Billy Mac questions the ability to forgive the sins of Anakin Skywalker. Plus, STAR WARS IN POP CULTURE spotlights a popular network drama. Star Wars is everywhere!

Electronic Arts has had a rocky relationship with the Star Wars license. In the wake of yet another cancelled STAR WARS game, EA critics have been making a lot of noise. Rogue One writer Gary Whitta is among those voicing strong opinions about the mismanagement of the brand. We listen to audio highlights from a recent Whitta interview and we discuss the situation with SEGAbit's Barry Harmon. We talk about the past, present and future of Star Wars video gaming, along with Barry's top 3 Star Wars video games of all time. Rumors for EPISODE IX are getting stronger and more specific. We check out some of the latest to hit the web. "There's no crying in Star Wars!" The RFR Voicemail Hotline gets us talking about the moments in the saga that bring out an emotional response from us. And we look at how George Lucas worked with his actors and used his fortune to invest in film technologies. Plus, famous Chicago film locations for fans to check out during Star Wars Celebration, Carrie Fisher's brother talks about her EPISODE IX footage, Samuel L. Jackson again says he's up for a return to the galaxy far, far away, and more!

What does "Space Opera" really mean? Who (or what) is Nick Nolte playing in The Mandalorian? Can SOLO find new success on Netflix? We try to find the answers this week on RFR! The street date for STAR WARS RESISTANCE action figures was this week and the toys are on the pegs, if you're in the right place at the right time. Jimmy Mac hits the stores looking for the new figures and he's wired for sound. Hear what happens on the hunt! We also review the second half trailer for Resistance and speculate on what will go down on the Colossus. Plus, new reveals for STAR WARS: GALAXY'S EDGE, Mr. Iger leaves a voicemail and more!

RFR is back for 2019 with an all-new show as we look forward to what should be an epic year for STAR WARS. After getting caught up with special guest Cris Macht (THE FORCE AMONG US), we take a deep dive into some amazing Darth Vader content released during the holiday season. We review Marvel Comics DARTH VADER #25 and debate what some believe to be confirmation of the identity of Anakin Skywalker's father. And, we take a look at VADER: SHARDS OF THE PAST, a new fan film that takes the medium to the next level. Plus, Cris gives us updates on his current projects, along with a review of Columbia's Empire Strikes Back Crew Parka, we offer some tips for those visiting Chicago in April for Star Wars Celebration, Star Wars Christmas gifts, Listener Voice Mail, and we pay tribute to a "Real Fan of the Saga".

Original Santa Yoda art by Tsuneo Sanda Visit www.sandaworld.com In our final show for this year, we look back at the 2018 and break down all the Star Wars releases from films to television to comic books and more. We discuss SOLO hitting the theaters, the conclusion of STAR WARS REBELS, the home video release and novelization for THE LAST JEDI, Marvel's DARTH VADER comic series, STAR WARS: FORCES OF DESTINY and some "Fulcrum" predictions we made for STAR WARS REBELS that actually came true. The history of Star Wars celebrity cameos features many well-known stars making appearances in the films. We take a look at some well-known personalities who found themselves in a galaxy far, far away. Blowing up the Death Star at Midnight on New Years Eve is an RFR tradition that has caught on everywhere. It all started on this show and continues to grow in popularity. Listen for instructions on how you can ring in 2019 Star Wars-style. Plus, Star Wars In Pop Culture and more. Thanks for listening to RFR all year and we hope you join us for an amazing 2019. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

RFR LIVE returned this week for a full show dedicated to taking your live phone calls about all things STAR WARS. Topics run the gamut of everything from EPISODE I to EPISODE IX and beyond. Hear what we think about the future of STAR WARS after EPISODE IX and how we think it will all unfold. Is the Sequel Trilogy more of a "spinoff" than a "continuation"? Could Rey actually be The Chosen One? What were Yoda's mistakes in the Prequel Trilogy? We discuss and debate! We even draw comparisons to the post-Lucas era of STAR WARS and the post-Henson era of The Muppets and more. Look for updates on Facebook for upcoming RFR live streams in 2019!

George Lucas has a pretty solid definition for The Balance of the Force and how the Jedi relate to it. We review comments made by Lucas in regards to this oft-misunderstood concept, and try to make sense of it, while considering how his ideas have been adapted into the Sequel Trilogy. There was a lot of feedback regarding our rewatch of THE LAST JEDI and we go thru some of the comments and opinions. Recent Reddit Rumors about EPISODE IX, STAR WARS GALAXY'S EDGE and more are picking up steam. We review some of the supposed "insider info" that was apparently leaked from a Star Wars 2019 Marketing Conference. Plus, Kevin Smith gives us a set report from EPISODE IX, we investigate a weird rumor about George Lucas returning to the directors chair for a Kenobi film, we discuss a photo of Young Luke Skywalker as he was supposed to appear in THE FORCE AWAKENS, but ended up on the cutting room floor, and a chock-full edition of Star Wars in Pop Culture.

It's almost a tradition! RFR's Stocking Stuffer is back again, hanging over your fireplace and chock full of wonderful all-new STAR WARS Christmas and holiday music. Listen as you decorate your STAR WARS Christmas tree, while shoveling Hoth-like snow off your driveway, or while driving your snowspeeder to the local cinema to see ROGUE ONE, again. Then go back into our archives to hear previous Stocking Stuffers from 2013 and 2014! Each has something different to offer. Listen to them all and you will enjoy almost 2 hours of STAR WARS holiday fun. Happy holidays and Merry Christmas from the entire RFR family!

The Star Wars Christmas tradition continues! Welcome to this year's RebelForce Radio Stocking Stuffer. Last year, we presented you with a collection of some great holiday audio production produced exclusively for us here at RFR. This year, we have gathered together an amazing soundtrack of Christmas music inspired by the galaxy far, far away. It's over ONE HOUR worth of Star Wars holiday cheer - non-stop and uninterrupted. It's the perfect audio accompaniment as you decorate your Christmas tree with Artoo Deeto lights, while you make your holiday toy runs, or as you prepare your presents in Star Wars wrapping paper. Enjoy this gift from RFR...It's our best Star Wars Christmas music compilation ever Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from RebelForce Radio! Don't forget to check out last year's Stocking Stuffer 2013 featuring James Arnold Taylor, Tom Kane, David Collins, and more!

Welcome to our Star Wars Christmas collection of stories, music and comedy produced exclusively for us over the years. You will hear great holiday audio from the likes of James Arnold Taylor, Tom Kane, Corey Burton and the cast of Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Plus, David Collins, Denise Vasquez, Randy Martinez and more to stuff your stocking the RebelForce Radio way! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from all of us here at RebelForce Radio!

In response to the conversation generated on RFR LIVE last week, Jimmy Mac rewatched THE LAST JEDI all the way through for the first time since March. Hear how his opinions have reinforced and changed in an in-depth breakdown of the film. We spotlight the highs and lows of Episode VIII while considering how various characters and situations are portrayed, and where things are heading for the soon-to-be-concluding Skywalker Saga. We look at an Esquire article that claims the portrayal of Luke in THE LAST JEDI was put into motion by George Lucas himself. Plus, we mix in a little MAD MAGAZINE STAR WARS canon for a completely different (and wacky) perspective. Also this week, the attempt to recruit the youngest fans picked up steam with the newly launched STAR WARS: GALAXY OF ADVENTURES series of animated shorts. We give our first-glance adult opinions, then we talk to someone who the shorts are actually geared towards...A kid! Ten year old Bailey Swank shares her take on the latest in STAR WARS animation and tells us whether or not she thinks it will appeal to kid viewers.

RFR LIVE returned this week featuring wall-to-wall listener phone calls and STAR WARS conversation. Our switchboard was flooded as the topics included everything from MARVEL STAR WARS to THE LAST JEDI to STAR WARS RESISTANCE and more. Billy Mac is also hanging out for the holiday and you know he brought along Puppet Lando! Every year on Thanksgiving week, we point the spotlight on you, the greatest audience in all of Star Wars!

THE MANDALORIAN added a couple of new cast members this week, and we have insider information about the production from our rebel spies. We pay tribute to Stan "The Man" Lee with some rare audio highlights from Stan's career and discussion about his role in giving the green light to the original Marvel STAR WARS comic. We have the latest updates on the STAR WARS: GALAXY'S EDGE parks at Disney, along with info from Disney CEO Bob Iger. STAR WARS: RESISTANCE season one continues and we review "Children of Tehar" and "Signal from Sector Six". James Burns from Jedi News checks in to talk about Queen and STAR WARS. Simon Pegg misses George Lucas, Natalie Portman talks about THE PHANTOM MENACE, the RFR Voicemail Hotline and more.

Breaking News! Cassian Andor will be the featured character in an upcoming live-action Star Wars streaming series starring Diego Luna. Bob Iger made the big announcement this week and the RFR microphones were there. Hear highlights from the conference call along with new info about the Disney+ Streaming App and THE MANDALORIAN. The Queen biography flick BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY is number one at the box office and everyone is listening to their old Queen albums again. We look back at the band's connection to STAR WARS via lyrics from their songs and theatrics from their stage show. Was Freddie Mercury a fan of The Wars? Listen to find out! Plus, an actress from THE FORCE AWAKENS debuts on THE WALKING DEAD, we debate about the origin of Vader's Castle in the latest Marvel Comics, and we listen to a killer jam band tribute to the Galaxy Far, Far, Away, courtesy of The String Cheese Incident.

This week was the sixth anniversary of Disney's Lucasfilm acquisition and we look back at the very first comments made after the deal went down from the three major players. We listen to what George Lucas, Kathleen Kennedy, and Bob Iger had to say about the future of STAR WARS back in 2012 and compare those comments to what we have today. The EPISODE IX rumor mill is starting to heat up! We discuss some of the latest gossip to leak from the set of the next Star Wars film. STAR WARS RESISTANCE season one continues with "The High Tower". We break down some of the recent episode highlights...As well as some series lowlights overall. Plus, we open the listener voicemail hotline and more!

We celebrate Halloween STAR WARS style this week on RFR! Jimmy attended the annual Rancho Obi-Wan Gala last weekend and he's back from California with a report from the home of the world's largest STAR WARS collection. Star Wars Resistance: Declassified is back with a full review of "The Triple Dark" and "Fuel for the Fire". Plus, we look back at some hilarious Halloween highlights in Star Wars in Pop Culture, we check in with the RFR Patreon community, and listener feedback featuring voice mail from the greatest audience of Star Wars fans in the galaxy.

We're bringing the galaxy far far away closer to you this week as we open up the RFR Voice Mail hotline to hear what you think about THE MANDALORIAN, STAR WARS RESISTANCE, SOLO and more. We continue to go down the rabbit hole in an attempt to discover the identity of the "New" Wilhelm Scream with some fresh evidence in our latest Investigative Report. Plus, Dominic Monaghan talks about his road to Episode IX, Star Wars in Pop Culture spotlights Family Guy, we look at a compilation of crazy Yoda facts and more.

STAR WARS RESISTANCE made its debut this week with the premiere "The Recruit". Join us for the first installment of "Star Wars Resistance: Declassified" as we break down the initial episode with RFR brother Billy Mac. THE MANDALORIAN continues to be a hot topic of conversation and we have listener feedback and voice mail about the upcoming live action series. Plus, we continue our investigation into the "new" WIlhelm Scream, and come closer to its discovery via evidence from INDIANA JONES and the KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL.

THE MANDALORIAN has been revealed as the name of the upcoming STAR WARS live-action series coming from Jon Favreau. We review the information revealed in the official press release and analyze the tantalizing first photo of the title character. STAR WARS RESISTANCE launches this weekend. We look at early reviews and talk about our expectations for the series and take a look at some of the upcoming action figures. Friend of the show, STAR WARS artist Kevin Liell stops by IN THE CANTINA with original trilogy actor Rusty Goffe, who shares his stories about playing several characters in A NEW HOPE such as Kabe, Power Droid, and a Jawa. You may have also spotted Rusty in some other famous franchises as well like Harry Potter, Willow, and Willy Wonka. We discuss The Hollywood Reporter story revealing Kathleen Kennedy has extended her contract with Lucasfilm for three more years, we review highlights from Clint Howard's visit to The Dennis Miller Option, and more.

Paul is back with Jimmy to get caught up on conversation about everything that influenced the STAR WARS films. An individual who made a huge impact on the first 2 movies was producer Gary Kurtz. In the wake of his passing, we look back at his STAR WARS career and controversies. With STAR WARS RESISTANCE on the horizon, we discuss our expectations for the show and review some early animated efforts from Lucasfilm, DROIDS and EWOKS. Paul talks about some highlights from the SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY Blu Ray, and we look forward to watching a rare and recently unearthed EMPIRE STRIKES BACK documentary.

The original STAR WARS poster art created by the Hildebrandt Brothers in 1977 is arguably the most iconic and recognizable symbol of the saga. We are honored to be joined by one half of the duo responsible for its creation as Greg Hildebrandt joins us IN THE CANTINA to fill us in on the background and history of this well-known work of art. Disney's Bob "The Buck Stops Here" Iger revealed to the Hollywood Reporter a slowdown is coming for STAR WARS as the studio will be pulling back on its up-to-now aggressive release schedule. We discuss what this means beyond EPISODE IX and how it may affect the announced Rian Johnson trilogy. Plus, a closer look at the Anthony Daniels cameo in SOLO, we remember Gary Kurtz, and we continue our search for the "new" Wilhelm Scream.

Welcome to the latest in the RFR Film Commentary series, this time focusing on SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY. We are joined by Billy Dee McInerney for a deep dive into the HD digital release as we watch the whole thing from beginning-to-end while offering up our observations, trivia, jokes and opinions. You can sync up your copy of SOLO and listen along with us, or just listen along as a standalone podcast. Since there is no commentary track on the official release, join your favorite Star Wars chuckleheads, and Puppet Lando, for a fun screening of SOLO!

The famous Yoda statue at Presidio Park in San Francisco is a selfie destination for all Star Wars fans. We get the behind-the-scenes story about the sculpture directly from the artist himself, Lawrence Noble, who fills us in about the origin of the statue and how it came to the attention of George Lucas. Lawrence has great stories about his Star Wars works and other celebs who own his artwork, including Peter Jackson and the recently-passed legend Burt Reynolds. Now you can watch Han make the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs at home! The digital version of Solo: A Star Wars Story was released this week. Join us as we review some of the special features and deleted scenes.

The "Solo: A Star Wars Story" novelization hit store shelves this week and it expands the story seen in the cinema with the inclusion of deleted scenes and additional insight into the characters and plot. We review some of the highlights. Jason points out some interesting observations he picked up while watching the latest promo video for Star Wars Resistance and lets us know what he thinks of the upcoming series. Plus, the latest Episode IX news headlines and rumors, intoxicating news about Disney Parks Star Wars: Galaxy Edge, and listener voicemail gets us talking about Anakin's slavery, Finn's "programming" and more.

New casting news for Star Wars Episode IX! New info about Star Wars Resistance! New speculation about the Star Wars Live Action TV Series and more this week on RFR. Paul Bateman serves as guest co-host for a breakdown of all the big Star Wars stories this week including news about Dominic Monaghan and Matt Smith joining the Episode IX cast and a review of the new Star Wars Resistance promo video "Meet Team Fireball". How many times did you see Solo: A Star Wars Story during its theatrical run? We bet you didn't see it as many times as Chicago-area Solo-Superfan Lisa Dullard who joins us to talk Solo and review the new book "The Art of Solo: A Star Wars Story". Plus, listener voicemail leads to a discussion about the sounds of Star Wars including The Wilhelm Scream, The Krayt Dragon and Chewie's "Tarzan Call".

The voice behind Obi-Wan Kenobi, James Arnold Taylor returns to RFR to join us in celebration of #CloneWarsSaved and the upcoming return of Star Wars: The Clone Wars. We catch up with JAT and he fills us in with his reaction to the big news, while cracking us up with his many stories and voice impersonations. We got our first look at Star Wars Resistance via a new trailer and press release. We look closely at the cast and characters list, along with the trailer itself shot-by-shot to see if this show can be a worthy successor to The Clone Wars and Rebels.

Celebrating 10 years of The Clone Wars this week as we look back at what made the series great...And we look ahead to the show returning next year. We have audio highlights of Clone Wars cast members reacting to the show coming back and we review comments from Dave Filoni in recent print interviews. What's up with the Obi-Wan Kenobi standalone film? We have updates! Plus, Conan goes to the Mos Eisley Cantina, RFR meets WKRP, vinyl-caped Jawas, and the return of RFR Slow and Tell!

Return of the Jedi's Salacious Crumb was a crowd pleaser from the moment we first saw him onscreen in 1983. This week on RFR, we talk to the man behind the laughter, actor Mark Dodson joins us IN THE CANTINA to talk all-things-Crumb, courtesy of our pal Kevin Liell. With Darth Maul's surprise return to the Saga in SOLO, we review some vintage Ray Park audio from our archives to find some uncanny foresight. In news headlines, Bob Iger reveals new information about the status of the upcoming Disney Streaming Service and what Star Wars content will be included...And what won't. Plus, new info about Star Wars Resistance. Todd Fisher, Carrie's brother, shared his thoughts and feelings, along with a little info, about unused footage of his sister being used in Star Wars Episode IX. We listen to highlights of his comments along with a recent Simon Pegg interview where he expresses remorse for some of his past harsh criticisms of the Star Wars prequels and Jar Jar Binks.

RFR Returns! Star Wars news blew up while we were on vacation and we are pumped up to be back behind the mics just in time for cameras to roll on Episode IX. We review the casting announcement press release, looking closely at who was added to the cast and who was subtracted, and the decision to use existing footage of Carrie Fisher in the final episode of the Sequel Trilogy. We look back at last month's SDCC and the big #CloneWarsSaved announcement with speculation about the episodes and future potential for the series. Plus, listener voicemail leads to a discussion of Force Ghosts, we talk about aliens we'd like to see in Episode IX, and what are the chances George Lucas would or could return to the saga?

Tom Savage from the New Orleans Saints joins us IN THE CANTINA to discuss what it's like to be an NFL quarterback and huge Star Wars fan. Tom shares his reviews of the latest Star Wars films, predictions, and stories from the locker room. Lando's Back! Rumors are strong about the return of Billy Dee Williams to Star Wars in Episode IX. Billy Mac is in the studio with us to celebrate this good news and other top stories. We have exclusive audio from ComiCONN's Star Wars panel hosted by Kevin Liell and featuring General Grievous actor Matthew Wood and the laugh behind Salacious Crumb, Mark Dodson. Kevin asked some questions from the RFR audience...See if he asked yours! Plus, we investigate the voice of Nien Nunb, we listen to audio highlights from recent Mark Hamill and Ron Howard interviews, and we talk about our decision to leave Twitter in the dust.

People are wondering why we are still talking about THE LAST JEDI...Are you kidding me? We'll be talking about TLJ for decades! And, SOLO, and the OT, PT, Rogue One...You name it...We talk about it all. This week is no exception as we are joined by STAR WARS artist, entrepreneur and convention panel host Kevin Liell. Kevin joins us to give his reviews of the latest STAR WARS films and his experience appearing on AMC's recently-cancelled COMIC BOOK MEN. Plus, we review the latest rumors about upcoming STAR WARS films, from Kenobi to Mos Eisley, and potential Lucasfilm shake-ups, Mark Hamill talks more about Luke in TLJ, Ron Howard talks about the rumor that future STAR WARS standalones are on hold, listener voice mail, a new RFR jingle and more.

Jedi Yogi John Marcoux returns, this time to present us with "The Mythological Blueprint of Han Solo" as seen in Solo: A Star Wars Story. John brings together such diverse sources as Joseph Campbell, Greek Mythology, The French Renaissance, and the classic American Western to create an intriguing foundation for the character of young Han, before he became a scruffy nerf herder. We also answer the lingering question...Is Han an optimist or a pessimist? The answer might surprise you! In news headlines, the future of Star Wars standalone films might be in jeopardy. We review the latest rumors, including the possibility of one more "legacy" character from the Original Trilogy joining the Episode IX cast. And, we continue to address the scary controversies surrounding Star Wars and the fan community on social media. Plus, listener voice mail, some SHADOWS OF THE EMPIRE discussion, and Father's Day recaps.

Star Wars dominates the headlines this week as Solo: A Star Wars Story continues its theatrical run. The Goliverse's Steve Glosson joins us as special guest co-host as we break down the all the latest news including highlights from a recent Ron Howard interview that revealed new Solo insights from the director himself and gets us talking about the Star Wars criminal universe potentially being spotlighted in future films. George Lucas provides info about the direction he would have taken the Star Wars sequel trilogy if he didn't sell off his company. And we look closely at the reasons why Lucas no longer feels welcome working on Star Wars anymore. Steve gives us his first review of Solo and his opinions of Alden Ehrenrich taking on the lead role. Listener voicemail gets us talking about the villains of the Prequels and we try to wrap our heads around the controversial Star Wars fans vs creators vs media showdown that continues online.

Online controversy has exploded within the Star Wars fanbase. We take a close look at the social media situations surrounding actress Kelly Marie Tran and author Chuck Wendig. We talk about the role we are playing to promote change within the industry and community, and look closely at how DC Comics expects its talent to interact with fans via their Social Media Policy. Plus, the RFR voice mail hotline provides us with listener opinion about the controversies. And, we continue to analyze the box office performance of Solo: A Star Wars Story.

RFR's A-Team has assembled to provide you with the type of commentary and analysis for SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY you can only find here. We kick things off with Paul Bateman and F.J. DeSanto and a deep dive into the plot, actors, and characters. We focus on the title character and Alden Ehrenrich's performance, the legend of Chewie's life debt to Han, Donald Glover's take on Lando, and more. We also talk about the baggage that this film carried during its shooting and production. Then the gloves come off when Kyle Newman jumps in and we all share our opinions about Lucasfilm's missteps and where the franchise is heading. In the wake of the Solo box office under-performance, the honest and opinionated insights presented by our panel of film making veterans is eye-opening and revealing.

This is SOLO IN OHIO, our live podcast event recorded in front of a packed house of STAR WARS fans in Cleveland at the Playhouse Square Theater. Joining us on this amazing evening was RFR brother/fan fave Billy "Dee" McInerney along with our original brother-in-the-Force and co-host from our early days, Pete Nadel - A true STAR WARS podcast pioneer. But our most special guests were our audience. The mic was open all night for members of the RFR community to jump in on the conversation. We talk all about SOLO in this SPOILER HEAVY discussion. This show was recorded on opening night for the movie and it captures the excitement only a room full of die-hard STAR WARS fans can create!

We saw SOLO! A group of loyal RFR listeners gathered on opening night at a theater just outside Cleveland and created the perfect atmosphere for our first viewing of SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY. Immediately afterwards, we took our microphones out on the streets of downtown Cleveland to record our first analysis and raw reactions. Hear what we thought about it all: The plot, humor, efx, easter eggs and big surprises. Then, join us later for SOLO in OHIO - A live RFR event at the Playhouse Square Theater.

Chicago has been announced as the host city for Star Wars Celebration 2019! SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY hits theaters next week! With so much Star Wars goodness happening at once, we hit the microphones for as long as it takes to break it all down. Joining Jimmy Mac this week is Melody Deel from the Unofficial Rebel Force Radio Facebook Group and RFR brother, Billy Dee McInerney. As Chicagoans, hear what we think about Star Wars Celebration coming to the Windy City and what worked at the convention in the past, and what didn't. Nissan's Jeremy Meadows joins us In The Cantina with his report from the red carpet world premiere for SOLO. In news headlines, rumors this week popped up about what will be the next Star Wars standalone film, and it ain't "Kenobi". Plus, our final Solo In Ohio update, Puppet Lando and more.

Full report from the world premiere for SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY with audio highlights from the red carpet with the cast and crew. Some of the biggest news to come from the premiere had nothing to do with SOLO, but instead, we got our first bits of info about the upcoming STAR WARS live-action TV show from the series creator himself, Jon Favreau. Also walking the red carpet was Dave Filoni, who talked a little about STAR WARS RESISTANCE, but was cagey about where his future in STAR WARS is heading. We analyze what was said and what it could mean. "Prophet...Or Loser (Solo Edition)" with F.J. DeSanto is back! Hear F.J.'s final round of predictions before the release of SOLO. Also in this mega-sized RFR, Donald Glover brings Lando to SNL, Mark Hamill attends a wedding on THE BIG BANG THEORY, we hear the voice of Enfys Nest for the first time, and the story of how Swank got stuck in Chicago.

Share STAR WARS DAY with us on a mega-sized RFR as we prep for SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY and review the latest SOLO news, audio highlights from interviews with the cast and crew, and speculation about how the characters will be portrayed. We talk about May The Fourth activities and events happening in Chicago and we look at the most popular STAR WARS films in the US state-by-state. Chris Baker from Zen Studios joins us to talk about the extremely fun and addicting STAR WARS PINBALL, and he answers questions about his fandom via our famous Yoda Questionnaire. Plus, Star Wars cosplay dos and don'ts, Helen Hunt's fandom is revealed, Nissan has an amazing Star Wars Sweepstakes, listener mailbag, voice mail, Moralo Eval and more! Hiring? Visit ZipRecruiter! The smartest way to hire.

STAR WARS RESISTANCE was announced this week as the next animated series coming from Lucasfilm. Join us on RFR as we provide a full breakdown of the press release description of this new, anime-inspired series to debut this fall. New TV spots featuring previously unseen footage and dialog from SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY have been hitting lately. We get our first listen to Jon Faverau's character Rio, and discuss an alien species originally seen in THE CLONE WARS make their silver screen debut in SOLO. Speaking of SOLO, Alden Ehrenreich will be featured in an Esquire Magazine cover story and he says some interesting things about his future with the franchise. Jason's son Parker Swank provides us with a kid-sized STAR WARS perspective, along with hilarious character impressionations. Listener voice mail prompts discussion about the Jedi afterlife and The Star Wars Holiday Special, and we bring news to make the Kitster Nation rejoice!

New TV spots for SOLO: A Star Wars Story hit this week along with new merch hitting the shelves. Billy Mac joins us this week to review what we've seen and found. Are you Han or Lando? We take a test to find out. Mark Hamill talks about his interest about his continued involvement in the STAR WARS saga, and we analyze what he said. Prep work continues for RFR's SOLO in OHIO...Get your tickets now! The RFR Jukebox is fired up and we listen to some amazing show jingles created by listeners. Plus, Puppet Lando reads us the limited edition Denny's STAR WARS menu, we look at an excerpt from the lastest saga novel, "Star Wars: Last Shot", we pay tribute to a largely unrecognized Resistance pilot from THE LAST JEDI, we research the correct way to pronounce "Han" and more.