LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – In recent years, May 4 has become celebrated internationally as “Star Wars Day” as a nod to the quote “May the force be with you” from the influential 1977 film “Star Wars.”
Since the franchise was acquired by Disney, several new movies and TV shows have been released with some featuring actors and actresses with ties to the Natural State.
Here’s why May the 4th is celebrated as Star Wars Day across the galaxy
Adam Driver
When the franchise officially re-launched with “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” it featured Adam Driver as Kylo Ren, the main antagonist, a role he continued into the films “The Last Jedi” and “The Rise of Skywalker.” Though he wasn’t born in Arkansas, Driver’s family has deep roots in the Natural State and his father is from Little Rock .
Pamm Riddle
Though you may not be as familiar with her characters, central Arkansas native Pamm Riddle has played various characters in the “Star Wars” universe including in the shows “The Mandalorian,” “The Book of Boba Fett” and “Obi-Wan Kenobi,” as a background actor.
“I nerd out every time I’m on set. I’m a huge Star Wars nerd and I honestly never thought that it would be possible to work on anything Star Wars,” Riddle said. “I feel very blessed that I’m able to work in a galaxy far, far away to be honest.”
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Lee Isaac Chung and Lauren de Miranda
Two others with ties to the Natural State in the Star Wars universe include filmmaker and Lincoln native Lee Isaac Chung who directed episodes of the shows “The Mandalorian” and “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew.” Actress Lauren de Miranda is a Fort Smith native and has also been involved in the franchise as a stand-in in both “Ahsoka” and “The Book of Boba Fett.”
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In addition to Arkansas ties within the franchise itself, several actors have also made stops at conventions in the Natural State…