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GENERATION SKYWALKER: A STAR WARS PODCAST

Star Wars : Generation Skywalker

Informed chat, guest interviews and event coverage with reviews, analysis and commentary covering everything from vintage toys to the latest TV shows.

All eras. All passions. All Star Wars.

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25 episodes
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Avg 1 hr 16 min
English

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#182
Thursday · 56 min
BANTHA TRACKING 4: THE OFFICIAL FAN CLUB STAR WARS NEWSLETTER ISSUE 4 SEPTEMBER 1978 | LUCASFILM FANDOM TRACKS
In this instalment of Bantha Tracking, Dan and Jez continue their journey through the early history of Star Wars fandom as they explore the fourth issue of the Official Star Wars Fan Club Newsletter, published in September 1978. This issue features a look at the career of producer Gary Kurtz, charting his work to date and his role producing Star Wars. We discuss Kurtz’s post Star Wars career and his role in bringing the original film and its sequel to the screen- and why he didn’t return for the third instalment. There’s also some major Star Wars news, as the newsletter reveals the title of the second Star Wars movie—The Empire Strikes Back. We look back at this early announcement and the excitement surrounding the next chapter of the saga, nearly two years before the film would eventually arrive in cinemas. AND the Newsletter is finally christened with its new title when the results of the “name the newsletter” contest is revealed. We also put the Generation Skywalker crew to the test with a Star Wars trivia quiz based on the contents of the newsletter. Just how well do Jez and the rest of the crew know their Star Wars trivia? There’s only one way to find out! featuring a complete audio presentation of issue 4 of the newsletter, join us as we continue our look at the history of early Star Wars fandom—one newsletter at a time.
#181
September 30 · 54 min
THANK THE MAKER ROGUE ONE 10TH ANNIVERSARY PREVIEW WITH DAVE TREE & MARK NEWBOLD | STAR WARS FANDOM & EVENTS
In this episode, we’re joined by Dave Tree, organiser of the long-running Farthest From event, and Mark Newbold from Fantha Tracks to discuss the upcoming Thank the Maker event. Taking place in Winchester this October, the third Thank the Maker is celebrating the 10th anniversary of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. The event brings together people who worked behind the scenes on the film for a series intimate panels on the making of movie, offering attendees a unique opportunity to hear first-hand stories about the making of Star Wars. Dave discusses the event’s origins, his decision to bring Farthest From to a close (for now), and what fans can expect from Thank The Maker, including sharing a rundown of the 17 guests lined up for the event. Thank the Maker takes place at St Swithun’s School in Winchester on Saturday 17 October 2026. Tickets: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thankthemaker/2305678 Event information: https://thankthemaker.co.uk
#180
September 16 · 39 min
BANTHA TRACKING 3: THE OFFICIAL STAR WARS NEWSLETTER ISSUE 3 MARK HAMILL INTERVIEW JULY 1978 | LUCASFILM FANDOM TRACKS
In this instalment of Bantha Tracking, Dan and Jez explore the third issue of the Official Star Wars Fan Club Newsletter from July 1978. This issue features an interview with Luke Skywalker himself, Mark Hamill, as he shares memories of his experience working on Star Wars—including how a friend, who would later become an icon in his own right, told Mark about the part and encouraged him to audition. He also shares his thoughts on working with Carrie Fisher and Harrison Ford, as well as his hopes for his future career and more. We also take a look at this issues Q&A section, where Lucasfilm answers questions from fans eager to learn more about the galaxy far, far away. Plus, we continue the previous episodes look at “Between the Script and the Projector” with Part Two of the article examining the journey after casting as competed through to the film arriving in cinemas on 25th May 1977. Along with a complete audio presentation of issue 3 of the newsletter, join us as we continue our look at the history of early Star Wars fandom—one newsletter at a time.
#179
September 9 · 1 hr 25 min
VINTAGE STAR WARS TOYS | THOSE OLD FOSSILS 39: THE MILLENNIUM FALCON
This episode, Those Old Fossils begins a brand-new series exploring the pilots of the Millennium Falcon, and to kick things off we’re looking at ship itself- Kenner’s vintage Millennium Falcon from 1979. Widely regarded as one of the most iconic vehicles in the original Star Wars toy line, the Falcon became the centrepiece of countless childhood collections and remains a cornerstone of vintage Star Wars collecting today. Ron Salvatore from the Star Wars Collectors Archive returns to share his expertise on the toy’s development, design, play features, Zendaya and it's lasting appeal The team explore what made the Falcon such a special release and why it continues to be one of the most beloved items in the Kenner range. The discussion also covers international releases, packaging variations, current market prices, and related Falcon items, including the die-cast and Micro Collection versions, as well as where the Falcon featured beyond the toys. Whether you owned one as a child or still have one proudly displayed on your shelf, this episode celebrates a true classic of the vintage Star Wars line.
#178
August 25 · 45 min
BANTHA TRACKING 2: THE OFFICIAL STAR WARS FAN CLUB NEWSLETTER ISSUE 2 | LUCASFILM FANDOM TRACKS
In Episode 2 of Bantha Tracking, Dan and Jez explore the second issue of the Official Star Wars Fan Club Newsletter, capturing the excitement of Star Wars fandom in 1978. Alongside a complete audio presentation of Newsletter Volume 1, Number 2, they discuss Star Wars’ 1978 Oscar wins, sequel developments, the “Name the Newsletter” competition as well as its prizes, cover the regular Q&A section, plus more. Join us as we continue to our look at how Lucasfilm connected with fans long before the internet, conventions, and social media.—one newsletter at a time.
#177
August 10 · 1 hr 42 min
THOSE OLD FOSSILS 38: THE RANCOR AND HIS KEEPER | VINTAGE STAR WARS TOYS AND COLLECTABLES
In this episode of Those Old Fossils, Palitoy Pete, Martin, Dan and Jez are joined by Mark Andrews from Variant Villains turn their attention to two 1984 releases from the vintage Return of the Jedi line — the mighty Rancor and the Rancor Keeper. The Rancor is one of the most distinctive and visually impressive creatures in the vintage Star Wars range, and the team explore why it has remained a popular piece for collectors more than forty years later. From childhood memories and play value to loose and boxed collecting, this episode is a celebration of one of Kenner’s most memorable creature releases. Naturally, the conversation also turns to the Rancor Keeper. While the character is an essential part of Jabba’s palace, the figure itself has never exactly enjoyed the same legendary status as the beast it serves. The Fossils discuss whether this chunky fella deserves a little more appreciation than it usually receives. Ron Salvatore from the SWCA returns with another fascinating segment, sharing his insights into the history and significance of both releases within the wider world of vintage Star Wars collecting. Whether you’re a lifelong Rancor fan, or simply enjoy hearing vintage Star Wars enthusiasts debate the highs and lows of the Kenner line, this episode is packed with nostalgia, collecting chat, expert insight, and plenty of good-humoured Fossils discussion.
#176
July 31 · 50 min
THE COMMITTEE: TOP TEN LAST 17 ACTION FIGURES| VINTAGE STAR WARS TOYS
Following on from last years Committee on the First 12 action figures, the Committee returns to debate the final wave of vintage Star Wars action figures- the legendary Last 17. Stuart, Martin, Dan, Pete and Jez each pick their top ten from Kenner’s 1985 wave of Star Wars figures, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of every contender before Stuart reveals the official Generation Skywalker ranking. Listen to the full debate and countdown.
#175
July 24 · 1 hr 12 min
THE MODERN WAY 31: THE RETRO COLLECTION SPECIAL | STAR WARS TOY COLLECTING HASBRO
Generation Skywalker returns with a deep dive into one of the most nostalgic Star Wars toy lines of the modern era – Hasbro’s Retro Collection! Join Stuart and Dan as they look back at the entire Retro Collection range of 115 figures and counting, from its debut in 2019 through to the latest wave in 2026. Inspired by the vintage Kenner line, the Retro Collection has both delighted and frustrated collectors with vintage-style figures and card backs with a healthy dose of nostalgia—that hasn’t always hit the mark. In this episode, we discuss the evolution of the line from its beginnings to today. Our favourite waves, figures and card backs. The releases we think Hasbro absolutely nailed as well as the figures, design choices and decisions that left us scratching our head. Plus where we’d love to see the line go next. We also dip into the Generation Skywalker archives to revisit a segment from Craig Spivey, who takes a very dim view of the Retro Collection card backs. Craig tears into their terrible design, the awful faux wear, the nasty big red sticker and the incredible amount of unnecessary text crammed on to the reverse of the card back- in 26 different languages. Whether you’ve been collecting since Wave 1 or are just discovering the Retro Collection, this episode is packed with nostalgia, opinions and plenty of Star Wars collecting chat.
#174
July 10 · 1 hr 41 min
THOSE OLD FOSSILS 37: JABBA THE HUTT PLAYSET + BIB FORTUNA | VINTAGE STAR WARS TOYS AND COLLECTABLES
In this month’s Those Old Fossils, Palitoy Pete, Martin, and Dan turn their attention to one of Kenner’s most iconic vintage Star Wars releases — the Jabba the Hutt Playset. The team also takes a closer look at Bib Fortuna, Jabba’s loyal Twi’lek majordomo, exploring the character’s role in Star Wars and the story behind his classic Kenner figure. Jez drops in throughout the show to share his thoughts on both items, while Ron Salvatore delivers an impassioned deep dive into Jabba, discussing every aspect of the playset — from original concepts and prototypes to the question: is Jabba the Hutt actually an action figure? This sparks a lively debate amongst the team. Mark Andrews joins Dan to share his passion for Bib Fortuna and also reveals that Frank’s Mews Baggie Guide has found a new home on the Variant Villains website — and is better than ever. From one of Kenner’s greatest playsets to one of Jabba’s most recognisable allies, this episode is packed with collecting stories, expert insights, in our continuing celebration of the vintage Star Wars collecting hobby.
#173
June 27 · 41 min
BANTHA TRACKING 1: THE OFFICIAL STAR WARS FAN CLUB NEWSLETTER ISSUE 1 | LUCASFILM HISTORY FANDOM
Every journey has a beginning…… Bantha Tracking is an audio journey through the earliest official Star Wars fan publications. Each episode brings an original issue of the Official Star Wars Fan Club Newsletter, Bantha Tracks to life, presenting an audio edition and hosts exploring its articles, news, interviews, rumours and behind-the-scenes stories in discussion. Beginning this episode with the very first Official Star Wars Fan Club Newsletter from early 1978, we’ll follow the publication issue by issue as it evolves into Bantha Tracks and beyond, experiencing Star Wars as fans did at the time—waiting for the next film, discovering new characters, and learning the latest news directly from Lucasfilm. Whether you’re a lifelong Star Wars fan, a collector of vintage memorabilia, or simply fascinated by the history of the franchise, Bantha Tracking offers a unique opportunity to rediscover these rare publications as they were originally read—and now, heard—one issue at a time. Join Dan, Jez and some bloke called Alan as we begin the trail with Newsletter Volume 1, Number 1
#172
June 16 · 1 hr 35 min
THOSE OLD FOSSILS 36: AMANAMAN + A LOOK AT THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU | LAST 17 VINTAGE STAR WARS TOYS
Continuing our recent focus on vintage Star Wars figures whose characters have appeared in The Mandalorian, the Generation Skywalker team turns its attention to one of the most unusual and memorable releases in the Kenner line — Amanaman. With The Mandalorian and Grogu now in cinemas and members of Amanaman’s species making an appearance in the film, there has never been a better time to revisit this bizarre figure. This month, Palitoy Pete, Martin, and Dan are joined by Mark Mulcaster from Fantha Tracks to discuss The Mandalorian and Grogu, sharing their thoughts on the film before taking a deep dive into the history of Amanaman, his place in the vintage line, and why this strange denizen of Jabba’s Palace remains one of the most distinctive and sought-after figures among collectors. Mark Andrew fron Variant Villans drops in and this time with Amanaman focus collector Ed Newborn to discuss the figure. And Ron Salvatore from the SWCA returns to the show to share his insights into the character and the figure’s place within the wider history of Star Wars collecting. From the latest Star Wars film to one of most iconic oddities in Kenner's line, this episode is packed with discussion, vintage collecting passion and AMANAMANAMAMAMAN
#171
May 27 · 51 min
THE COMMITTEE: TOP TEN 80’s MOVIES (THAT AREN’T STAR WARS)
Things go completely off the rails for a very special one-off episode of The Committee… because for the first time ever, we’re stepping away from Star Wars! The team assembled for a day out to see The Mandalorian & Grogu, and after several hours of enthusiastic “refreshments,” the Committee somehow decided it was a good idea to record a live debate from Dan’s back garden to determine the official Generation Skywalker Top 10 80’s Movies. Joining the chaos are special guests Jon Aves, Wendy Williams, and Dan’s wife Emma, as we battle through questionable choices, passionate arguments, nostalgia overload, and varying levels of intoxication to decide which films truly deserve a place on the list. From sci-fi classics and action legends to cult favourites and guilty pleasures, no movie is safe. Will your favourites make the cut? Will the rankings make any sense? Will anyone still be coherent by the end? There’s only one way to find out. Grab a drink, pull up a chair, and enjoy the first… and possibly last… non-Star Wars episode of The Committee!
#170
May 22 · 1 hr 1 min
THE MODERN WAY 30: THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU MADNESS | STAR WARS TOYS AND COLLECTABLES
On this episode of Generation Skywalker’s The Modern Way, Stuart and Dan dive into the latest wave of Star Wars toy and collectible announcements We kick things off with a look at the newest promotional tie-ins as The Mandalorian and Grogu marketing machine kicks into hyperspace., including Burger King giveaways, Robinsons squash and Walkers Crisps collaborations that are bringing Star Wars to supermarkets and fast-food counters everywhere. Then we break down the latest announcements from Hasbro, including the eye-watering $600 Ultimate Grogu animatronic, plus new reveals from Hot Toys and LEGO. We also revisit the May the 4th Geeki Tikis preorders and discuss which collectibles are must-haves — and which might be better left in carbonite. If you’re into collecting the modern Star Wars lines, this is the episode for you.
#169
May 13 · 1 hr 17 min
THOSE OLD FOSSILS 35: R5-D4 | VINTAGE STAR WARS TOYS AND COLLECTABLES
In the latest episode of Those Old Fossils, Palitoy Pete, Martin, and Dan turn their attention to one of the most memorable droids in the vintage Kenner line – the ever-popular R5-D4. Following last month’s focus on Luke Skywalker Jedi Knight, the team continue celebrating characters who have appeared in The Mandalorian series, once again tying our figure focus to the excitement surrounding the upcoming release of The Mandalorian and Grogu, arriving in cinemas in less than a week. The episode opens with a look at the recent Vectis and C&T auctions, as the team discuss standout lots, surprising results, and notable sales, before turning their attention to the upcoming Oberon auction and sharing the items they’ll be watching most closely. The discussion also touches on GENERATION SKYWALKER’S Vintage Figure of the Year competition, which has been running across Facebook and Instagram since late March, and concludes on 22nd May, with the team reviewing recent results and predicting the remaining matchups. Ron Salvatore from the Star Wars Collectors Archive (SWCA) joins the main discussion once again, bringing his trademark insight and expertise as the group explore the history, appeal, and collecting nuances of this classic Kenner release. https://theswca.com/ Elsewhere in the episode, Mark Andrews from Variant Villains has bought alongside R5-D4 focus collector Nick Eppinga, taking a deeper look at the figure’s variations — including the ever-fascinating “Red Bar” version. https://www.variantvillain.com/characters/sw/r5-d4/ Despite originally appearing only briefly in A New Hope, R5-D4 has become one of the most recognisable and beloved droids in the vintage line. Packed with collecting insight, nostalgia, hobby chat, and passionate discussion, this episode is another deep dive into the vintage galaxy far, far away. Join us as we celebrate the little red astromech whose bad motivator changed Star Wars history forever.
#168
May 4 · 1 hr 34 min
MAY THE 4TH GEEKI TIKI PARTY | STAR WARS TOYS AND COLLECTABLES
It’s May the 4th, and Generation Skywalker is throwing our second ever Geeki Tiki Party! We’re joined by special guest Brandon Giraldez, founder of Beeline Creative—the masterminds behind Geeki Tiki—as we celebrate not only Star Wars Day, but also the 10th anniversary of Geeki Tiki. Brandon arrives with a punch bowl full of surprises, revealing a wave of brand-new Star Wars Geeki Tiki mugs exclusively on Generation Skywalker you won’t want to miss. The team also unveils the official Generation Skywalker Top 10 Star Wars Geeki Tikis, following on from last week’s committee episode- Will Brandon agree with our choices? We also revisit our very first Tiki Party from December 2022 to see if any of our original mug pitches have made their way into development… and of course, we couldn’t resist pitching Brandon a few brand-new ideas while we had him! And no tiki celebration would be complete without raising a glass to Craig—the man who first introduced Generation Skywalker to the wonderful world of Geeki Tiki in our early days. So grab your favourite Tiki mug, pour yourself something tropical, and join us for a Star Wars Day celebration like no other. Cheers—and May the 4th be with you!
#167
April 27 · 49 min
THE COMMITTEE: TOP TEN GEEKI TIKIS | STAR WARS TOYS & COLLECTABLES
*******EPISODE UPDATE******** Earlier this week, we dropped this show as a Mystery committee… now the secret’s out 👀 It’s true title: THE COMMITTEE: TOP 10 GEEKI TIKIS Things get seriously tropical as the team debates Generation Skywalker’s TOP 10 Star Wars Geeki Tikis 🍹 But there’s a twist… this is just the warm-up. These picks are all leading to our tiki party on May 4th, where we’ll present our final list to Brandon Giraldez, owner of @beelinecreative — the masterminds behind the iconic Geeki Tikis themselves 👀 Expect strong opinions, bold choices, and a few controversial takes as we try to lock in the ultimate top 10 before facing the man who made them! Plus, we throwing in a classic segment from an early episode of The Modern Way, where Craig first shared the history of Tiki as well as Geeki Tikis themselves to the crew- and set this whole thing in motion 🌊 So get warmed up for our Tiki Party episode dropping May 4th, featuring new exclusive product reveals from Brandon you won’t hear about anywhere else.
#166
April 15 · 1 hr 37 min
THOSE OLD FOSSILS 34: LUKE SKYWALKER JEDI KNIGHT | VINTAGE STAR WARS TOYS
In this episode of Those Old Fossils, Dan, Jez, Palitoy Pete, and Martin Woodgate turn their attention to one of the most iconic figures in the entire vintage Kenner range – the legendary Luke Skywalker Jedi Knight. The team take a deep dive into the history, design, and collecting appeal of this classic figure, exploring everything from production details and accessories to the subtle variations that continue to fascinate collectors decades later. As always, no rock is left unturned in the pursuit of vintage Star Wars knowledge. We are once again joined by Ron Salvatore from the Star Wars Collectors Archive (SWCA) and Mark Andrews from Variant Villains, who both share their expert insight and deep knowledge of the figure. Together, they help unpack the nuances, myths, and facts surrounding this enduring favourite from the Kenner line. The team also look back at the most recent Echo Base Live event, sharing their experiences, highlights, and what made this year’s gathering so memorable for collectors. In addition, the discussion turns to the ongoing “Vintage Action Figure of the Year” tournament, currently running across Instagram and Facebook, as the community continues to vote and debate their favourite figures from the vintage line. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your journey into vintage Star Wars toys, this episode is packed with insight, nostalgia, and passionate discussion from a team who live and breathe the hobby. Join us as we celebrate one of the most iconic figures ever released in the vintage galaxy far, far away.
#165
March 14 · 49 min
THOSE OLD FOSSILS SPECIAL: BOB BRECHIN‘S PALITOY STORY LIVE FROM FARTHEST FROM | VINTAGE STAR WARS TOYS
In this episode, we step back in time to the Summer 2023 Farthest From, for a recently re-discovered recording we made at the event featuring Bob Brechin. Taking to the stage, Bob shares the fascinating story of Palitoy — from its inception in the early 20th-century through to its eventual decline — and reflects on his own time working on the company’s design team. He discusses Palitoy’s ambitious efforts to bring Kenner’s Star Wars line to the UK during the 1970s and 80s, along with his creative role in developing the iconic Palitoy Death Star playset. Packed with first-hand insight and behind-the-scenes stories, Bob’s talk offers a rare glimpse inside one of Britain’s most beloved toy companies at the height of the Star Wars phenomenon.
#164
March 5 · 1 hr 32 min
THOSE OLD FOSSILS 33: IMPERIAL STORMTROOPER IN HOTH BATTLE GEAR | VINTAGE STAR WARS TOYS
On this episode of Those Old Fossil, Dan and Palitoy Pete head back to the frozen battlefields of Hoth to take a deep dive into one of the most iconic figures from the vintage line – the Hoth Stormtrooper. Joining the discussion is special guest Martin Woodgate once angain, along with Mark Andrews from Variant Villains to help explore the many variations and quirks collectors love about this classic figure. As always, we’re also joined by Ron Salvatore from the Star Wars Collectors Archive (SWCA) for his regular expert roundup, bringing historical insight and expert knowledge to the table. Together the team covers all facets of the Hoth Stormtrooper, from production details and packaging to the fascinating and often misunderstood grey limbs variant that continues to intrigue collectors today. Along the way, Dan also delivers history lesson on Germany’s Yps comic, and teams discuss its unique cross over with vintage Star Wars. Whether you’re a seasoned vintage collector or just love the history behind Kenner’s classic line, this episode is packed with discussion, insight, and plenty of snowy nostalgia. Join us as we explore one of the coolest troopers in the vintage galaxy.
#163
February 25 · 1 hr 13 min
A LOOK AT THE MANDALORIAN PART 1 | STAR WARS TV & FILM GROGU
In the lead-up to the theatrical release of The Mandalorian and Grogu, the Generation Skywalker team are finally turning their attention to The Mandalorian. Over the next three months, we’ll releasing a series shows dissecting all three seasons of the groundbreaking Star Wars series. In this opening episode, Stu, Jez, Dan, and special guest Martin Woodgate explore the build-up to the show’s debut in November 2019. We discuss the development of the series, the revolutionary StageCraft technology used to bring it to life, the buzz from the Celebration panel, and how we coped in the UK without access to Disney+ until March the following year. We then dive into Chapter 1, sharing our thoughts of the episode,- including our initial reactions on first viewing, the music, the standout characters and performances, the storytelling, and of course, the unforgettable final reveal of Grogu (aka “Baby Yoda”). Join us as we begin our deep dive into the series that launched Star Wars on television. THIS IS THE WAY.

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