Earlier today DLP Today reported that Darth Vader has been confirmed as a resident of the new Star Wars meet and greet scheduled to take over the building that was Star Traders, just outside Star Tours. I’ve not actually read the article, as I like to get my own opinion out there before being swayed by what others write, but I’ve known Anthony for years and he doesn’t post news if it isn’t actual news.
While this isn’t the biggest surprise in the world it’s still a very welcome piece of news to see confirmed. Darth Vader is the most iconic character in the Star Wars universe and arguably the most iconic in the history of cinema. He also ticks boxes for every possible type of Star Wars: he was in the Original Trilogy, the story of the prequels is about Anakin becoming Darth, he’s in Star Wars Rebels and he’s even in the recently released Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. No matter when you became a Star Wars fan you know Darth Vader, and from what I’ve seen, love his character, with a little bit of fear thrown in there too. Even guests who have never seen Star Wars will recognise his image, he’s that big part of pop culture, and has been for almost 40 years.
I can also confirm, from my own personal experiences at the Disneyland Paris Star Tours event in March that he is a fantastic character to meet. Though a non speaking character, his presence alone is both awe inspiring and a little terrifying, in a good way. Having a bouncy and smiley meet with Chip and Dale or Donald Duck is brilliant, but so is one with the villains where there may be a little trepidation mixed in with your excitement. I had so much fun meeting him, as he stared a hole through my attempts to make friends. He’s not all bad though, as he did sign my Last Tour to Endor ticket, so there’s one to add to the collection you most likely haven’t got. If all that wasn’t enough – just imagine how many scenes from the films you can act out?
Over time I’d like to see a variety of characters in rotation, with the likes of Chewbacca and Kylo Ren added, but starting off with Darth Vader is perfect. The latest date we have for Star Tours to reopen in Disneyland Paris is March 26th, so one would assume this is when this meet and greet will open too. Better get that lightsaber out, there’s a Sith Lord just waiting to meet you!