May the force be with them!
Star Warscast membersHarrison Ford,Mark HamillandBilly Dee Williamsreunited with directorGeorge Lucasand Disney Chairman and CEOBob Igerfor the opening ofStar Wars:Galaxy’s EdgeinDisneylandon Wednesday night.
The new land, which opens Friday in Anaheim, California, features rides likeMillennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, which takes place on a replica of the iconic spaceship, andStar Wars: Rise of the Resistance, which brings guests through a virtual battle between the Resistance and the First Order.
“It’s something you couldn’t even dream about 20 years ago,” the director, 75, said. “It’ll change your life.”
Williams, 82, who played the Falcon’s original owner Lando Calrissian, came out next.
“It’s amazing to see [the spaceship] looking so good today!” he said. “I’m so excited for you, you’re going to get to pilot the Falcon too and experience your own adventures. You’re going to love it just as much as I’ve loved it being a part of this fantastic franchise. To all the fans out there, thank you. This land is for you.”
Star Wars:Galaxy’s Edge.Amy Sussman/Getty Images
Amy Sussman/Getty Images
Bob Iger and Harrison Ford.
Luke Skywalker himself came out next, and Hamill, 67, reminisced on his experience with the franchise.
“Look where we are today. We get our own land!Star Wars,to me, has always been the gift that keeps on giving and the reason is because of you,” he said. “Your parents tell you not to speak to strangers, yet everywhere I go, everyone treats me like family. The stories [fans] tell me are so heartfelt.”
Ford came out last, after Iger joked that he couldn’t figure out how to turn on the Falcon.
“I’m gonna give it a try, Bob,” Ford, 76, said, to cheers from the crowd.
“Peter, this one’s for you,” he added, referencing actorPeter Mayhew, who portrayed Chewbacca in the film series and recently passed away in April.
Other celebrities in attendance at the event includedBrie Larson,Viola Davis,Cobie SmuldersandKerry Washington.
Galaxy’s Edgewas first announced in 2015and will openat Disneyland in Anaheim, California, on Friday and at Disney World in Orlando, Florida, on August 29. It’s the largest single-themed land expansion ever at a Disney park, coming in at a whopping 14 acres.
Those planning to visit Disneyland between May 31 and June 23 will have to make reservations — free, but subject to availability — to access the land, though guests staying at any of the park’s three hotels will receive one reservation per guest with their booking.
source: people.com
