Rebel Force Radio: Star Wars Podcast

THE MANDALORIAN is on the newsstands as Entertainment Weekly spotlights the popular Disney+ show in an all-new cover story. We review all the hints, rumors and anticipation for the upcoming second season. In her first interview since the premiere of THE RISE OF SKYWALKER, Daisy Ridley revealed that there was an early plan in place for Rey to be a decedent of Obi-Wan Kenobi. We listen to what Daisy had to say and weigh in with our opinions. Plus, more Mandalorian talk with highlights from recent talk show appearances by Bill Burr and Jason Sudeikis, lots of love for Jon Favreau, and Homer Simpson tells us the tale of Darth Plagueis the Wise.

F.J. DeSanto - TRANSFORMERS producer, STAR WARS superfan, and longtime friend of RFR - joins us to share his critical thoughts on the now-completed sequel trilogy. We also talk about THE MANDALORIAN and F.J. lays down some predictions on where the future of the STAR WARS franchise is heading. Plus, he shares some cool behind-the-scenes info about TRANSFORMERS: THE WAR FOR CYBERTRON, now on Netflix. Master Yoda has a new look in recently revealed artwork for the upcoming STAR WARS: THE HIGH REPUBLIC publishing launch and we review his spiffy new threads. Will we see Boba Fett in THE MANDALORIAN season two? We speculate! Also, we review RANCHO OBI-WAN's Virtual Star Wars Celebration live stream!

Bestselling Star Wars author and former Lucasfilm creative executive J. W. Rinzler joins us In The Cantina to discuss his new novel "All Up!" and share some great behind-the-scenes stories about working at Skywalker Ranch with George Lucas. We review recent interview highlights from THE MANDALORIAN'S Jon Favreau and Giancarlo Esposito. Also, Ron Howard recently spoke about a sequel to SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY and we hear what he has to say. Brought to you by RayCon!

How well has Attack of the Clones aged? How do you reveal your STAR WARS obsession to the person you just started dating? How does Puppet Lando keep his breath so cool and fresh? All of these questions get answered on this new episode brought to you by RFR on Patreon. We're also showcasing Paul Bateman's STAR WARS All-Time Top 30, and an epic Swank meltdown. Plus, a tribute to a loved one who has become one with The Force. Join RFR on Patreon today to support Rebel Force Radio and get bonus shows and exclusive videos!

Watch the first three episodes of THE MANDALORIAN season one with us as we provide witty banter, astute observations, and bottomless flagons of spotchka. Baby Yoda, disentigrating Jawas, Mudhorn eggs, and camtonos of beskar are just a few highlights. This is the way. RFR All Access supporters on Patreon can listen to our commentary while watching our exclusive video. Join RFR All Access on Patreon today!

Dan Madsen is the man who launched Star Wars Insider Magazine, created Star Wars Celebration and ran the official fan club. He even had to the opportunity to do what most fans dream of when he appeared in THE PHANTOM MENACE as Dams Denna. His footprint on Star Wars fandom is undeniable and we are honored to welcome Dan back to RFR. Dan shares great stories about his interviews with George Lucas and Rick McCallum, the excitement of the hype leading up to the release of Episode I, and the challenges of running the first-ever Star Wars Celebration. Plus, an Outrageous Unthinkable news story featuring an angry ex-boyfriend seeking revenge via Chewbacca impersonations, and we present the world premiere of a killer industrial metal tribute to Saw Guerrera.

We are graced with the presence of true Mandalorian royalty as STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS actress Anna Graves joins us IN THE CANTINA to talk about all of the characters she gave live to, most notably, the Duchess Satine Kryze. Anna shares her experiences in the studio and as a fan, including her shock at seeing Moff Gideon wield The Darksaber in THE MANDALORIAN season finale. We share our memories of THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK with Empire40, Prat Pack debate, and Patton Oswalt had to miss the world premiere for SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY. LIsten to Star Wars In Pop Culture this week to find out why! Brought to you by Raycon

THE BAD BATCH is Coming! An all-new upcoming STAR WARS animated series was revealed earlier this week in a surprise announcement, and it will be a CLONE WARS spinoff. We react to the news while offering speculation and opinions. Popular UK comedian Geoff Norcott joins us IN THE CANTINA for a flagon of Spotchka to discuss his lifelong love of the franchise. Moff Gideon actor Giancarlo Esposito teases season two of THE MANDALORIAN in a recent interview and we review highlights

Finally, we sit down to watch ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY together with mics on and drinks flowing as the RFR Brew n' View is open for business. This has been at the top of the listener request list for a long time. Join us! Stream Rogue One and follow our cues to sync your screen to ours while we fill your earbuds with our interesting trivia, quick takes, random thoughts and witty repartee while the film unfolds. Brought to you by Manscaping.

Daniel Logan brought the character of Boba Fett to life in STAR WARS: ATTACK OF THE CLONES in 2002 and has been a fixture at Star Wars events and conventions ever since. An old friend of RFR, we are happy to bring you our longest on-air conversation with Daniel to date. We talk all about shooting Episode II, voicing Boba in THE CLONE WARS, and his huge personal Star Wars collection, some of which he's auctioning off via his new Facebook group BOUNTYBOXES. Last week we wondered why the classic Kenner Luke Skywalker action figure had a yellow lightsaber. Kevin Liell joins us with fresh info from original Kenner designer Jim Swearingen who explains why the accessory was not-quite-movie-accurate. Plus, Machtails, HOBBYLife and Werewolves of London.

Ewan McGregor pulls back the curtain on the upcoming Disney+ Obi-Wan Kenobi series in a recent interview and we review audio highlights. We review the trailer for the newly-announced STAR WARS SQUADRONS video game. Actor Caleb Malis from HBO The Plot Against America joins us IN THE CANTINA to talk about his life as an up-and-coming young actor, his pop culture artwork and his STAR WARS fandom. Plus, a visit from RFR graphic artist Chris Amorim launches an Investigative Report, and we meet German Yoda.

Veteran Hollywood TV producer Steve Kozak (The Tonight Show/Jimmy Kimmel Live) joins us In The Cantina to share his STAR WARS HOLIDAY SPECIAL knowledge culled from research for his still-under production documentary "A Disturbance In The Force: The Making of The Star Wars Holiday Special". Updates for THE MANDALORIAN include season two production updates from second-unit director Sam Hargrave, including teasing the reveal of Baby Yoda's real name. Plus, Mark Hamill reacts to The Mandalorian and we react to his interview highlights, Bob Hope meets Luke Skywalker, and we cook Salacious Crumb on a spit!

THE MANDALORIAN's Chris Bartlett joins us IN THE CANTINA to share tons of behind-the-scenes stories from his experience on the set as the Bounty Hunter droid Zero (Q9-0) and other characters. Chris is also the longtime official C-3PO for live Star Wars events and TV appearances. Hear about his time on stage at The Academy Awards, LEGO Masters, appearances with a US President and more. Plus, Jimmy Mac goes to the Drive-In, and some listener feedback that might pull on your heartstrings.

We go behind-the-scenes of The Mandalorian with actor Dominic Pace, who played bounty hunter Gekko. We review recent rumors about the future of Star Wars animation and live-action, and we celebrate the 40th anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back with a tribute to director Irvin Kershner with exclusive audio from Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Billy Dee Williams.

We couldn't possibly wrap up our series of CLONE WARS cast member "Victory Laps" without the woman behind Padme Amidala! Actress Catherine Taber joins us IN THE CANTINA to talk about her huge contributions to the popular STAR WARS animated show. Also joining us for the conversation is Master Kenobi himself, James Arnold Taylor! Cat & JAT are great off-screen friends and we love the chemistry that comes from these two talents when they get together. We review the latest MANDALORIAN casting rumors, listener feedback, and Mark Hamill's Star Wars impersonations.

We look forward towards Jimmy Mac's upcoming appearance on MeTV's Collector's Call with show host Lisa Whelchel. We've known Lisa for years as Blair from The Facts Of Life, and now she is visiting collectors all over the country to spotlight them on Collector's Call. Jimmy Mac is appearing on the show as a Star Wars Expert as Lisa tours the Eric Pfeifer's collection. His Star Wars stash takes up his whole house! Eric also joins us for a preview of what to expect when the show premieres this weekend. Dave Filoni appeared on Disney+ to explain how the death of Qui-Gon Jinn resonated all the way through the Saga thru Return of the Jedi. We listen to highlights and provide our own analysis. Plus, lots of Mandalorian season 2 casting and production updates.

We welcome back yet another talented actor from the recently concluded STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS as Stephen Stanton joins us In The Cantina. We review Stephen's entire massive dossier of Star Wars character voices from TCW, REBELS, ROGUE ONE and beyond. And our long-time listeners know Stephen never travels alone, so he brought along his star-studded "Book Club" for a ton of laughs! Plus, Hayden Christenson talk, the Taika Waititi announcement, and more!

Almost 12 years since STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS debuted in movie theaters, the series comes to a spine-tingling conclusion with The Siege of Mandalore Part IV: Victory and Death. Joining us to break it all down are two core members of the RFR Roundtable family, Transformers producer F.J. DeSanto and Fanboys director Kyle Newman. Enjoy this uncensored and unedited historic conversation with four Star Wars fans who've been there since the beginning.

S7 E11 "Shattered" After capturing Maul on Mandalore, Ahsoka's journey to the Jedi Council is disrupted when Order 66 is declared, turning her world upside down We celebrate the penultimate episode of STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS with a killer Roundtable featuring Billy Mac and Kevin Liell, plus live listener calls as we break down THE SIEGE OF MANDALORE Part Three: SHATTERED.

Just like Ahsoka, we desperately need to talk to Anakin Skywalker before he turns to the Dark Side of The Force. So naturally, Matt Lanter has returned to RFR to take a CLONE WARS victory lap and celebrate the series wrap-up with "The Siege of Mandalore". Matt talks about his history with the series, the chemistry of the cast, and behind-the-scenes stories about Anakin Skywalker you won't hear anywhere else. Matt also fesses up about trashing the set of THE MANDALORIAN during his cameo in episode six "The Prisoner". BREAKING NEWS from Rancho Obi-Wan! Fan ambassador, author, and legend Stephen J. Sansweet, along with Star Wars expert and ROW General Manager Anne Neumann, joins us to reveal information about VIRTUAL RANCHO OBI-WAN. Find out all about it for the first time here! And, we visit Skywalker Vineyards for a glass of wine from George Lucas's personal vintage, courtesy of executive director Tom Johnson, who shares a fun way to celebrate MAY THE FOURTH on social media with wine from Skywalker Ranch.

S7 E10 "The Phantom Apprentice" The battle moves back to Mandalore as Ahsoka and Bo Katan take the fight to Darth Maul in an effort to topple his control of the independent system and end his quest for revenge. Joining us for this amazing roundtable discussion are Cleveland Chris Marinin from the Star Wars Friends podcast and Star Wars expert & artist Paul Bateman.

Ahsoka finally reunites with Anakin and the Clone Army she left behind in the first part of The Siege of Mandalore, an amazing and action-packed episode. To discuss, RFR reunites with longtime friends of the show, our roundtable guests Paul Bateman and David Mac Sparky. Plus, live listener calls!

Coming off his incredible performance in THE CLONE WARS "Bad Batch" arc, Dee Bradley Baker joins us to talk about acting in the great STAR WARS animated series. From Captain Rex to Commander Cody, Dee has voiced all of the Clone Troopers and he has some great stories to tell. Daisy Ridley recently spoke about how fan reaction has changed since THE FORCE AWAKENS, how online fan reaction has hyper-charged criticism, and how she made the choice to turn away from social media. Jar Jar Binks actor Ahmed Best was shooting-from-the-hip when discussing the new iterations of Star Wars not being about the kids anymore. We have audio highlights from both actors which fire up some very interesting commentary and opinions. Plus, conversation about Ahmed's upcoming Jedi Temple Challenge Disney+ series, Jar Jar on Kenobi rumors, Listener Feedback, rants about critics of fandom and more.

Ahsoka ventures into the Coruscant underworld and Level 1313 where she encounters the Martez sisters who take her on a doom-fated spice run for the Pykes, catching the attention of The Mandalorians. We're talking about all 4 episodes and taking listener phone calls live with our special guests Steve Glosson and Grant Gould.

Our CLONE WARS celebration rocks on with yet another core cast member from the classic animated series as the great Tom Kane joins us IN THE CANTINA. A fan-favorite for his work as Jedi Master Yoda among other voices, Tom fills us in with killer insight into his career, the voice acting industry and, of course, the return of THE CLONE WARS. As always, Tom brings his fun spirit to RFR, along with a ton of laughs. Sonny from New Orleans checks in with a controversial take on some footage seen in THE RISE OF SKYWALKER Blu Ray documentary "The Skywalker Legacy", and we continue to analyze Rey's hardships and challenges in The Sequel Trilogy, including her "Uggghhh" moment in Ep IX. Plus, Jason spooked his kid with Indiana Jones movies , we talk about the ever-delayed INDIANA JONES V, and Jedi Master Samuel L."Mace Windu" Jackson has an important message for us as we struggle through Quarantine 2020. Keep Calm and Listen to Rebel Force Radio.

The ever-positive presence of JAMES ARNOLD TAYLOR joins us this week In The Cantina as we continue to celebrate the return of THE CLONE WARS. We get caught up with JAT to pick his brain about the return of the groundbreaking STAR WARS animated series and voicing Obi-Wan Kenobi in Season 7. Plus, James walks us through all of the notable voice work he did on all the movies in the Disney-era of Star Wars, From THE FORCE AWAKENS all the way through THE RISE OF SKYWALKER, revealing all the key characters he voiced. Always great to catch up with our old pal JAT! Listener voicemail inspires more chat about Rey's trials throughout the Sequel Trilogy. Plus, a full review of the packaging and content for the new SKYWALKER SAGA 4K Box Set and great savings for RFR listeners on amazing sounding Raycon Wireless Earbuds! All this plus tons more great STAR WARS talk on this week's RFR!

Ahsoka Tano is a fan favorite, mostly in part to the great Ashley Eckstein. Her relationship to the character and connection to the Star Wars fanbase is unlike that of any other actor. To celebrate the return of Ahsoka to THE CLONE WARS, we reconnect with Ashley for a long, deep conversation about Ahsoka, her past, her present, and yes, even her future. Ashley talks openly about the recent rumors concerning Ashoka appearing in the upcoming season 2 of THE MANDALORIAN and shares her feelings about the support she's received from STAR WARS fans everywhere. And, we continue our discussion/debate/argument over the rapid emergence of Rey's Force powers throughout the Sequel Trilogy, plus, Anthony Daniels talked about THE RISE OF SKYWALKER in a recent interview and we got the highlights.

Ahsoka Tano is rumored to show up in season 2 of THE MANDALORIAN with Rosario Dawson bringing the role to life for the first-time in a live-action medium. We talk about this huge development for the fan favorite character and The Future for Ahsoka. THE RISE OF SKYWALKER is finally available for digital download complete with bonus features and feature-length behind-the-scenes documentary. We review highlights from the doc, looking for additional insight into the return of Palpatine, the shift of Kylo Ren back to the light as Ben Solo, along with the father/son reunion. Comments made by cast and creators in the documentary ignite fired-up debates, opinions, praise, and criticism. We look closer at The Force Dyad, including a frame-by-frame analysis of the Kylo-Rey Force Vision from the start of Episode IX. It's impact on the rest of the film might be deeper than you thought.

S7 E1-4 "The Bad Batch" "A Distant Echo" "On The Wings of Keeradaks" "Unfinished Business" The mysterious Clone Force 99 joins Captain Rex and Anakin on a mission that leads to the discovery of a fellow Clonetrooper long considered dead. We're talking about the first four episodes from the final season of STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS with our review of the full "Bad Batch" arc featuring our special guests, Star Wars artist Kevin Liell and morning drive sports anchor from Newsradio 780 Chicago, Josh Liss. Plus, live callers voice weigh in!

We're back in Ohio for a live recording of RFR at Wizard World Cleveland featuring audience participation as we review some passages from the novelization to STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER, along with some talk about that Sweet Baby Yoda. Then, we moved to the main stage to interview The Armorer from THE MANDALORIAN, the fabulous Emily Swallow, who filled us in with us stories from the set of the popular Disney+ series. Emily talks about what it's like to work in the Star Wars universe, shares tales about her fellow Mando cast-mates, her work on SUPERNATURAL, and much more. Keep your eye on our website for videos of both Wizard World panels, coming soon. Thank you Evergreen Podcasts, Emily Swallow and Wizard World Cleveland for making everything happen.

Welcome to RFR's very first audio commentary track for STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER, wrapping up the controversial Sequel Trilogy and finale to "The Skywalker Saga". The film received mixed reviews and this commentary is a reflection of that with opinions ranging the spectrum from very favorable to very critical and all points in between. We really seem to like it like it while RFR brother Billy Mac tends to lean in the other direction. All three of us have our likes and dislikes so you will hear a variety of honest opinions and critique. No phony gushing or harsh hatred from any of us, just well-thought out observations and analysis of Episode IX from three hardcore fans since 1977, along with a bunch of laughs. This show works as both a commentary track you can listen to as you watch the film, or as a standalone audio podcast. You won't be getting an official audio commentary track from cast and crew with the soon-to-be released Digital and Blu Ray releases, so we're happy to fill that void. And, as a special exclusive bonus, members of RFR ALL ACCESS on PATREON get to watch the movie along with us, without having to fumble around to sync the video with the audio. So join today to watch Episode IX with us tonight!

We received an early copy of the novelization for STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER two weeks before it hits store shelves and we are happy to share all the essential information revealed about EPISODE IX. How did Palpatine orchestrate his return? Who was his son and where did he come from? How did Leia save Ben Solo through The Force? How did the Sith Eternal build their army in secret? What message did the Force Spirit of Luke Skywalker communicate to his sister Leia? All of the answers and more are revealed in this "Expanded Edition" novel adaptation. Special guest Paul Bateman joins Jimmy Mac for a SPOILER HEAVY close look at all the extra scenes and new details revealed in the new book by Rae Carson, along with tons of analysis and reaction.

Comedian Josh Robert Thompson has been our favorite George Lucas impersonator for years now, since he debuted his twisted take on GL in WALKING WITH GEORGE LUCAS and THE SECRET HISTORY OF STAR WARS audiobook, we here at RFR have been big fans. Now, JRTs carbon copy take of the famous director has been amped up, thanks to the addition of Deepfake technology in videos like GEORGE LUCAS GOES TO VEGAS. JRT joins us IN THE CANTINA to talk about how his career, combined with his passion for Star Wars, led him to the creation of these hilarious videos. Baby Yoda made a strong showing at Toy Fair 2020. Criz Bee from Jedi Business was at the big event and he gives us his full report on all the cool STAR WARS merch reveals. Huge Disney corporate news broke this week that could have huge ramifications on the galaxy far, far away as Bob Iger has moved on from his perch as CEO of the Walt Disney Corp. We talk about his successor Bob Chapek and how his leadership can be very different from that of Mr. Iger. Star Wars In Pop Culture features a deep Original Trilogy reference that all Jedi dads will love and appreciate.

Harrison Ford finally broke his silence recently about returning as Han Solo in THE RISE OF SKYWALKER. He's currently on a media tour and we got all the highlights! Harrison talks about his career and STAR WARS which triggers interesting conversation about his character and the man himself. Harrison is completely disconnected and disinterested with the lore of the saga and he gives us big laughs when he tries to use Star Wars terminology, but he instead references another franchise. Was he a Force Ghost in Episode IX? Harrison doesn't give a rats ass but hear what we think! Did you think the "Force Dyad" concept from TROS was confusing? So did we! We go down the rabbit hole to try to figure that one out. Star Wars In Pop Culture returns to shine the light on a new hilarious video "George Lucas Goes To Vegas" starring the legendary Josh Robert Thompson. Plus, more DUEL OF THE FATES, rants about the state of Star Wars action figure collecting, and other cool stuff!

An early draft of a script for the version of Episode IX that was to be directed by Colin Treverrow, DUEL OF THE FATES, leaked recently online. We review the script, along with concept artwork from the abandoned film. What could have been! Speaking of which, remember George Lucas's live-action TV series STAR WARS UNDERWORLD that ended up "on the shelf"? Test footage from the show was recently revealed publicly and we walk you through the whole video while wondering what the series would have been like if it actually happened. But let's not to forget the Star Wars that actually does exist with THE RISE OF SKYWALKER still in theaters. We discuss what the state of the galaxy may be like following the end of TROS and how the Force may have awakened across the universe. Plus, Skywalker Sound's Matthew Wood interview highlights reveal interesting info about the origin of Greedo's new "Maclunky" dialog, Oscars talk, Star Wars in Pop Culture and more.

The history of Star Wars is forever immortalized at Rancho Obi-Wan in Petaluma, California, home to Steve Sansweet's Guinness World Record largest collection of Star Wars memorabilia. Steve joins us to give us an update on a cool auction of Death Star art to benefit the museum along with his thoughts on The Mandalorian, Baby Yoda, and The Rise of Skywalker. Bob Iger made more comments this week regarding the Star Wars cinematic universe taking a hiatus, which triggers debate about the future of the film franchise and the players involved behind the scenes. In Jar Jar Binks news, a long-open RFR investigation gets resolved as we can now finally answer the question: Who is B.J. Hughes? Parker Swank stops by with a review of Nerf's Mandalorian Rocket Gauntlet and he lists his Top 5 All-Time Force Abilities. Plus, Ewan McGregor talks Kenobi with Jimmy Fallon and more!

We review what's to come in the final season of STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS and look at all of the story lines that we're under production when the animated series was initially cancelled. The upcoming KENOBI series has hit a pre-production bump in the road. We review the setback and listen to Ewan McGregor comment on the situation. THE RISE OF SKYWALKER editor Maryann Brandon revealed candid opinions and behind-the-scenes information about the film in a recent interview. We review her comments and throw down our opinions. Adam Driver returned to SNL to bring Kylo Ren back to "Undercover Boss". We have the hilarious highlights. THE RISE OF THE RESISTANCE finally debuted earlier this month at Disneyland Anaheim to overflow crowds. Tech Expert and Batuu resident "Mac Sparky" David Sparks returns to RFR with an in-depth review of this all-new innovative Star Wars ride.

Jedi Yogi John Marcoux returns to RFR to lay down The Mythological Blueprint for THE RISE OF SKYWALKER. John is a student of Joseph Campbell, a world-class yoga instructor (105F.com), an entertainment attorney, and a STAR WARS fan who uses knowledge of world mythology to analyze the saga and it's influences. As he's done for previous films, John tears apart EPISODE IX to present us with all the major story beats that define the protagonist, Rey, and the path of her specific "Hero's Journey". John's analysis is always filled with unique connections between STAR WARS and the history of myth. His take on TROS is another classic! Plus, THE CLONE WARS returns next month and a new trailer dropped this week to hype us up. We review the whole thing and look for clues about how the final season of the groundbreaking animated show will wrap everything up.

We're taking listener calls about Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, breaking down one of the rumored Colin Trevorrow/Derek Connelly Episode IX scripts, talking about "Release The JJ Cut", and reviewing the present and past of Star Wars at The Oscars.

Two weeks after THE RISE OF SKYWALKER debut, we begin a deep exploration into the themes, character development, and impact of Episode IX on the whole Saga. This time, with no special guests or distractions, we're able to have a full discussion about what TROS means to us and how it ties up the Skywalker story. Where does it enhance previous episodes in this trilogy? How does it reinforce messages from prior films? Does it contradict any of the previous mythology? We consider our reactions and look at other responses from across the internet. And, we listen to that mysterious transmission from The Emperor in Fortnite, along with comments from J.J. Abrams and more theater audio from when we saw the movie on opening night.

S1 E8 "Redemption" Baby Yoda in the clutches of evil! The Mando, Cara Dune and Greef Carga pinned down by enemy fire! Kuill is dead! What happens next? We find out in THE MANDALORIAN season one finale "Redemption". We get a name for our protagonist and see his face for the first time during an epic battle against Moff Gideon and the Imperial Remnant, along with a sweet call back to THE CLONE WARS at the end. What's The Mandalorian's new mission and where does the series go after this? We talk about it all! Join us for live discussion of the season finale of THE MANDALORIAN with special guest Pete Nadel and taking your calls

Paul Bateman joins us for the full show to talk about anything and everything going on in THE RISE OF SKYWALKER. We look closely at the chemistry between the "Big 3" characters in this trilogy - Rey, Finn, and Poe - along with a hard focus on the return of Emperor Palpatine and speculation about how his comeback was possible. We react to the appearances of fan favorites Lando Calrissian and Wedge Antilles, and throw down hard opinions about some heavy moments in the film, like the truth of Rey's evil lineage, The Spirit of Luke, the final destruction of The Sith, and the kiss that sealed the deal. Enhancing our conversation is audience reaction audio from the theater where we saw THE RISE OF SKYWALKER on opening night that puts you right in our row!

We gathered on opening day for STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER, December 20th, in downtown Cleveland to commemorate the end of an era at Kennedys Cabaret in the famous Playhouse Square for a special live episode of RFR, featuring insights and analysis of the finale to the Star Wars sequel trilogy. Matt Lanter, the voice of Anakin Skywalker from THE CLONE WARS stops by to give us his TROS review and talk about his cameo on THE MANDALORIAN. And Puppet Lando pays us a visit to spread messages of holiday joy. Billy Mac is here too! Plus, audience participation with an open mic and we give away a pair of Bose: Star Wars The Rise of Skywalker Quiet Comfort 35 Wireless Headphones!

RFR gathered with listeners and friends in downtown Cleveland to see STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER on opening night. We gathered immediately following the first public screening to share our fresh and raw opinions, emotions, criticisms, reactions, and occasional confusion, with a live "studio audience". You've been listening to RFR talk about Star Wars for 14 years and it's been a long, strange trip! Join us for first thoughts of the final episode of the Skywalker Saga!

S1 E7 "The Reckoning" The Mandalorian gathers his allies to take on the Imperial Remant who still are in pursuit of him after he took off with the "asset". The penultimate episode of The Mandalorian season one ends with a cliffhanger leaving Baby Yoda in the clutches of evil. We break down the entire episode and take your calls.

The 2019 Holiday Season is upon us and we here at Rebel Force Radio love to celebrate Christmas, Star Wars-style. So, we've once again gathered an all new collection of songs for the season in a galaxy far, far away. From the North Pole to Hoth, we have you covered with a ton of fun songs and parodies for your listening pleasure as you put Artoo Detoo lights and Yoda ornaments on your tree. Look for RFR Stocking Stuffer Vol 1-3 at our website!

S1 E6 "The Prisoner" The Mandalorian returns to the service of a mercenary crew from his past to retrieve a prisoner held aboard a New Republic prison ship. It's a prison break in space featuring tons of cameos, cool new droids, and surprises. Joining us to break it all down is the legendary Big Honkin' Steve Glossen from Geek Out Loud and we're taking listener calls too!

In our last weekly show before the release of STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER, we review the media hype surrounding it with audio highlights from cast and crew interviews, talk show appearances, and media junkets. We hear from J.J. Abrams, Chris Terrio, Daisy Ridley, and more. We discuss and debate the "End of the Skywalker Saga" marketing push, how the fallout from THE LAST JEDI will impact the finale, and the fragility of "The Chosen One" prophecy. Plus, Puppet Lando stops by to recreate some wild Billy Dee Williams quotes from recent print interviews. This is our final opportunity to discuss, speculate, and even vent a little, before the end of an era. Listen to hear what we have to say! Join RFR Live in Cleveland for Skywalker Rises in Ohio. Limited seating still available! Brought to you by Bose and the Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker Quiet Comfort 35 Headphones. Visit Bose.com/RebelForce to learn more.

S1 Chapter 5 "The Gunslinger" Seeking repairs for the Razor Crest, The Mandalorian lands on Mos Eisley and joins forces with a rookie bounty hunter to find Fennic Shand, hiding out somewhere across The Dune Sea. We're talking Chapter 5 of season one with special guests Billy Mac and Matt Rashid and taking live listener calls. Tatooine makes it's Mandalorian debut and we visit many familiar places along the way. Plus, we discuss the cameos from Amy Sedaris and Ming Na-Wen and what their characters bring to the episode.

STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER has reached peak media marketing with the recent debut of several TV spots revealing a variety of fresh footage from Episode IX. We look at each commercial and try to pick up on all the hints and clues from "The final episode in the Skywalker Saga". Are the reveals in the marketing too revealing? Or are they just playing on our nostalgia? We tear it all apart and tell you what we think. John Boyega appeared on The Tonight Show to give us further details about the script stolen from underneath his bed, and the fallout. TMZ also grabbed Boyega on the streets of Manhattan for some further explanation. We have highlights and reactions! Plus, old footage of George Lucas admitting he may have gone too far with THE PHANTOM MENACE gives us a few laughs, and of course, ample Baby Yoda talk.