Leading the development of the series is a creative team of exceptional talent. Screenwriter/producer Simon Kinberg (X-Men: First Class, Sherlock Holmes, Mr. & Mrs. Smith) is an executive producer on Star Wars Rebels and will write the premiere episode. He is joined by Dave Filoni as executive producer, who served as supervising director of the ®Emmy nominated Star Wars: The Clone Wars since 2008. Executive producer Greg Weisman brings with him a wealth of animation experience with credits such as Young Justice, The Spectacular Spider-Man and Gargoyles.

Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer, Disney Channels Worldwide, said, “The entire team at Lucasfilm has provided extraordinary creativity and innovation for over three decades, and we’re thrilled to be bringing the expansive and imaginative world of Star Wars to Disney XD’s viewers.”

“I couldn’t be more excited to explore new corners of the Star Wars universe,” said Kathleen Kennedy, president, Lucasfilm. “I think Star Wars Rebels will capture the look, feel and fun that both kids and their parents love about Star Wars.”

The action-filled series is set between the events of Episode III and IV – an era spanning almost two decades never-before explored on-screen. Star Wars Rebels takes place in a time where the Empire is securing its grip on the galaxy and hunting down the last of the Jedi Knights as a fledgling rebellion against the Empire is taking shape. Details about the show are a closely guarded secret at this point.

Star Wars Rebels will be produced by Lucasfilm Animation, featuring many of the key talents that made Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Fans attending Star Wars Celebration Europe will be the first to get an exclusive look at the new series. Casting will be announced at a later date. More information about this developing project will be found on starwars.com and on Facebook at facebook.com/starwarsrebels.

For 2012, Disney Channel U.S. was #1 among Kids 2-11, Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14 in Total Day measurements and #1 in Primetime among Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14. Disney XD delivered yearly ratings records in 2012 across both Total Day and Primetime in Total Viewers and all key kid and boy demographics.

In the Disney Channels Worldwide portfolio, there are 42 Disney Channels and 26 Disney XD channels, in over 20 languages, reaching hundreds of millions of viewers around the globe. Disney Channels Worldwide is part of the Disney/ABC Television Group.

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The day started out as a grassroots campaign that came from the famous Jedi line “May the Force be with you.” Every year there became a bigger following and more and more people were celebrating “Star Wars” on that day.

You can show your support by going on Twitter and Facebook and use the hashtag #MayThe4thBeWithYou to show that you are enjoying “Star Wars” Day. There was even a video made from Lucasfilm of Bonnie Burton asking people on the streets of San Francisco about “Star Wars” Day and how fans can celebrate.

In case you would like to participate in the celebration on May 4th, here are ten fun ways that you can enjoy and partake in the festivities. This list is courtesy of StarWars.com.

1. Have a “Star Wars” movie marathon with friends and family! But do you start with the prequels or the original trilogy? Do you mix in some episodes of “The Clone Wars”? Better decide before your guests arrive, or you may spend the day in a heated debate.

2. Dressing up for special occasions is important, and May the 4th is no different. Wearing anything from your favorite “Star Wars” shirt to full-on Stormtrooper gear is completely acceptable. (It’s okay to dress up your pet, too. Bounty hunter bulldogs are especially encouraged.)

3. Food is an essential part of any holiday. Death Star Popcorn Balls or Wookiee Cookies, anyone? Find a variety of recipes on StarWars.com!

4. Toast the saga with the ultimate “Star Wars”-themed beverage: blue milk, just like Aunt Beru used to make!

5. Feel the Force with “Star Wars” crafts: turn old socks and rocks into awesome “Star Wars” keepsakes! Learn how to make a Chewbacca Sock Puppet, “Star Wars” Snow Globe, and more at StarWars.com!

6. Have you Vadered anyone yet? Now’s the time to give it a try and be sure to Tweet your photo to @starwars!

7. You know that Rebel Alliance symbol tattoo you’ve been thinking about getting? Today’s the day.

8. Sometimes people use holidays to travel to new places. Why not go to Disneyland or Disney World and ride Star Tours? There are over 50 separate mission possibilities.

9. As Yoda said, “Pass on what you have learned.” Introduce a younger sibling, family member, or friend to “Star Wars”!

10. Do you have any “Star Wars” toys that you don’t need any more? Donate them and make May the 4th really memorable for children in need.

Plus this year marks the 30th anniversary of “Return of the Jedi” which makes this year’s celebration even more special. Also fans of the movie franchise are stoked with the new trilogy of movies beginning with “Star Wars: Episode VII” that will be coming to theaters soon. So this May 4th remember to party like you just defeated the Empire and as always, “May the fourth and the Force be with you!”

If you are looking to try out some of the family friendly drink recipes check out a few here to get you started as you watch the “Star Wars” saga.

Blue Milk

Ingredients:
1 cup milk
½ teaspoon unsweetened blue fruit punch mix
Sugar
Directions:
Pour the milk into a tall glass and gently stir in the blue fruit punch mix. The drink should be lightly tinted blue. Adjust the amount of mix to get the color that you like. Add sugar to taste.

Greedo Fauxito
For those who might not remember Greedo was the bounty hunter in “Episode IV: A New Hope” that tried to bring Han Solo back to Jabba the Hutt. Here is drink recipe that pays him homage.
Ingredients:
One lime
8-10 fresh mint leaves
Lemon-lime soda
Directions:
Squeeze juice of one lime into a tall glass. Add fresh mint leaves and muddle with a cocktail muddler or spoon. Fill glass with ice. Add lemon-lime soda to fill the glass.

Tatooine Sunset
Ingredients:
1 cup orange juice
¼ cup grenadine syrup (approximately)
Directions:
Fill a tall glass with ice, and orange juice. Slowly pour in grenadine syrup and allow to settle on the bottom.

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Three years before his 1977 film, George Lucas put down on paper his first story set in a galaxy far, far away—a tale of fantastic adventures, daring escapes, “lazer swords,” romance, and monsters. A story of Jedi Annikin Starkiller and General Luke Skywalker, an alien named Han Solo, and evil Sith Knights. The screenplay was titled The Star Wars!

“I’m not sure where I first read about The Star Wars—it was years and years ago—but the idea of Luke Skywalker being an older Jedi General, and Han Solo being a six-foot-tall lizard, turned my Star Wars fan brain on its side,” said longtime Star Wars editor Randy Stradley. “I always assumed this would be one of those stories that would be ‘lost to history,’ so getting to work on bringing it to life is kinda like a dream come true.”

“While researching in the Lucasfilm Archives I’ve found many treasures—but one which truly astounded me was George’s rough draft for The Star Wars. His first complete imaginings were hallucinating to read—mind blowing,” said writer J.W. Rinzler. “While working with George on another book project, I once asked if we could adapt his rough draft. He was hesitant. Years later, with Dark Horse’s invaluable help, we showed him a few drawn and colored pages of what it might look like. He gave us the okay.”

Originally conceived in 1974, The Star Wars has been the subject of rumor and legend in the fan community throughout the history of the galaxy far, far away. Now, Lucas has seen fit to grant Dark Horse the right to adapt this fabled story into an eight-issue comic series launching in September!

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This all-new Star Wars series is set in the time period of the original trilogy, directly following the events of Episode IV: A New Hope, and features the franchise’s best-loved characters, as told by Brian Wood (X-Men, DMZ, Conan the Barbarian, The Massive), with art from Carlos D’Anda (Batman: Arkham City).

This is Star Wars as you remember it and as you have never seen it before! Dark Horse is taking you back to those heady, adventure-filled days following the destruction of the Death Star—when the Empire ruled, the Rebels were on the run, and the galaxy was a dangerous place where anything might happen!

FOURTH PRINTING SET TO ARRIVE AT RETAIL ON APRIL 17!

If you have not started reading this series and you are a Star Wars fan, do yourself a favor and read this series. I love it and Dark Horse Comics does a great job of bringing the original trilogy back. This series is a great vehicle to get immersed back into the Star Wars universe. For more details go to DarkHorse.com.

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The same love that my daughter has for the solar system, I have for Star Wars. When I was on one of my favorite sites, ThinkGeek I found they had a Death Star Planetarium. I knew I had to get this item since both my daughter and I would love it. The Death Star Planetarium is the best of both worlds. One it is a small replica of the Death Star (who wouldn’t want that) and two it is a planetarium.

Not only does this Star Wars planetarium display Earth’s night sky, but it also displays the map of the Star Wars galaxy. All you need is to shut the lights of the room and you can start looking for Orion’s belt, the Big Dipper, Endor, or Hoth.

As you are gazing the night sky in the comfort of your very own room you are able to compare the Star Wars galaxy and our galaxy with the informative learning guide that comes with the Death Star. The planetarium requires the use of 3 AA batteries and is 11.1 x 10.0x 4.0”.

Not only was I giddy at the fact that I know have a mini Death Star of my own, but both my daughters love learning about our universe and a galaxy that is far, far away. To learn more about this item or to purchase it for $29.99 check out ThinkGeek’s website

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This episode – the culmination of five years of development of Ahsoka Tano’s character and her relationship with Anakin – is personally helmed by Dave Filoni, who serves as episodic director in addition to being the supervising director for the series. Underscoring the significance of the finale, composer Kevin Kiner arranged an orchestral score for this episode to better resemble the full, classical score found in the Star Wars feature films.

Usually I just give one preview clip, but since this episode is going to be HUGE, I am giving you two!

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Here is a quick preview of the upcoming show! Check out Ahsoka kicking some major butt!

Plus while watching the show here is some show trivia!

First appearance of level 1313

Among the in-joke stops on the subtram map are “Burbank,” “LAAC,” “Valley Village,” “Sunset,” “Beverly Blvd,” “North Hollywood,” “Laurel Canyon,” “Big Rock Ranch,” “RGC,” “Letterman,” “Skywalker Ranch,” “Lucasville,” “Coach House,” and “Filoniville.”

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For all you Angry Birds Star Wars fans there are a bevy of toys that you will love to get your hands on. One of the cool new editions is the Darth Vader carrying case. It holds more than 25 figures, 15 blocks, and one lightsaber launcher. The case also includes an Obi-Wan Kenobi bird, which is exclusive to the set. So make sure you keep an eye out for all these new Star Wars toys by going to Hasbro’s website for each product’s launch date.

Here is a breakdown of the toys.

STAR WARS ANAKIN TO DARTH VADER ACTION FIGURE

(Approximate retail price: $24.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Fall 2013)

Hasbro introduces a breakthrough action figure innovation to celebrate the rise of DARTH VADER with the STAR WARS ANAKIN TO DARTH VADER figure. Standing at 13-inches tall, this figure changes from ANAKIN SKYWALKER to DARTH VADER by attaching the helmet and armor, and includes iconic movie phrases, sound effects, and a LIGHTSABER that changes from blue to red.

STAR WARS BLACK SERIES 6-INCH ACTION FIGURES

(Approximate retail price: $19.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Fall 2013)

In 2013, Hasbro takes collectible STAR WARS action figures to the next level with the introduction of the BLACK SERIES action figure line! For the first time ever, Hasbro is introducing a 6-inch scale of the greatest characters from the STAR WARS universe. This exceptional collection of figures features incredibly accurate design and a high level of articulation. Each sold separately.

STAR WARS BLACK SERIES 3.75-INCH ACTION FIGURES

(Approximate retail price: $9.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Fall 2013)

Completing the new STAR WARS BLACK SERIES collection is a new 3.75-inch figure assortment which features the exceptionally accurate detail and superb articulation customary to Hasbro’s action figures. Each sold separately.

STAR WARS SAGA LEGENDS 3.75-INCH ACTION FIGURES
(Approximate retail price: $5.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Fall 2013)
These STAR WARS 3.75-inch action figures include the same high quality design kids have been enjoying for years, but now at a new lower price. The line includes characters from the STAR WARS movies as well as the STAR WARS: The Clone Wars animated series. Each sold separately.

STAR WARS MISSION SERIES ACTION FIGURES
(Approximate retail price: $9.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Fall 2013)
Hasbro introduces amazing new value with STAR WARS MISSION SERIES action figures! Team up your favorite STAR WARS characters, or pit them against each other, with these 2-figure packs, featuring popular STAR WARS characters such as DARTH VADER, ANAKIN SKYWALKER and JANGO FETT. Each pack sold separately.

STAR WARS 12-INCH ACTION FIGURES
(Approximate retail price: $9.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Spring 2013)
Standing at 12-inches tall, these large-sized action figures feature iconic characters from the STAR WARS universe such as ANAKIN SKYWALKER, DARTH VADER, CLONE TROOPER, and OBI-WAN KENOBI. Each sold separately.

STAR WARS 3.75” CLASS II VEHICLES
(Approximate retail price: $19.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Spring 2013)
Build your galactic fleet with new versions of iconic vehicles from the STAR WARS universe. These 3.75-inch-scale, exceptionally detailed CLASS II vehicles mark the first time these Hasbro STAR WARS vehicles are available at this lower price point. At launch, vehicles will include the REPUBLIC FIGHTER TANK, JANGO FETT’S SLAVE I, and OBI-WAN KENOBI’S JEDI STARFIGHTER. Each sold separately.

ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS BATTLE GAMES Line
The ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS app comes to life! The new line of Hasbro toys captures all the launching and destroying fun of the app in physical form and features your favorite STAR WARS characters re-imagined as high-flying ANGRY BIRDS and villainous pigs! Stack up signature STAR WARS structures and vehicles, and then use your LIGHTSABER LAUNCHER to launch your ANGRY BIRDS and knock them down! Each battle game sold separately.

ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS AT-AT ATTACK BATTLE GAME
(Approximate retail price: $39.99; Ages: 5 & up. Available: Fall 2012)
Stack, launch, and destroy with the AT-AT ATTACK BATTLE GAME, which includes 21 blocks to create the signature AT-AT, a LIGHTSABER LAUNCHER and 12 ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS figures — including two that are exclusive to this set! Players can also unlock ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS in-app content with a special code in each pack.

ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS STRIKE BACK BATTLE GAMES
(Approximate retail price: $14.99; Ages: 5 & up. Available: Fall 2012)
Stack, launch and destroy with these packs, each featuring three characters (one exclusive to each set), a LIGHTSABER LAUNCHER, and signature pieces to create an IMPERIAL PIG structure for your ANGRY BIRDS to knock down. Choose from DARTH VADER’S LIGHTSABER, JABBA’S PALACE, THE EMPEROR’S THRONE, and FIGHT ON TATOOINE. Players can also unlock ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS in-app content with a special code in each pack. Three new game packs are also available in Fall 2013: BOUNTY HUNTERS, BATTLE ON GEONOSIS and DUEL WITH COUNT DOOKU. Each sold separately.

ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS STAR DESTROYER BATTLE GAME
(Approximate retail price: $39.99; Ages: 5 & up. Available: Fall 2013)
Stack, launch and destroy with the STAR DESTROYER BATTLE GAME, which includes blocks to create the signature STAR DESTROYER, a NEW TRIPLE LIGHTSABER LAUNCHER and 12 ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS figures including ten that are exclusive to this set! Players can also unlock ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS in-app content with a special code in each pack.

ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS MILLENNIUM FALCON BOUNCE GAME
(Approximate retail price: $19.99; Ages: 8 & up; Players: 1-2; Available: Spring 2013)
Bounce into action with the new ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS MILLENNIUM FALCON BOUNCE GAME. Bounce three balls at the MILLENNIUM FALCON to knock down as many enemy pigs as possible, and land in the cockpit to score big! Players can also unlock ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS in-app content with a special code in each pack.

ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS DARTH VADERTM CARRYING CASE
(Approximate retail price: $19.99; Ages: 5 & up. Available: Fall 2013)
Keep your ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS characters, blocks and launchers in one place with this DARTH VADER Pig Carrying Case! The Carrying Case holds more than 25 figures, 15 blocks, and one LIGHTSABER LAUNCHER – everything you need to battle! The case also includes an OBI-WAN KENOBI bird, which is exclusive to the set.

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