Lucas’ new role: ‘Star Wars’ action figure

updated 11:48 a.m. ET May 4, 2006

LOS ANGELES - Not that long ago, in a nearby galaxy, George Lucas joined forces with the dark side. The “Star Wars” creator has become a Storm Trooper.

Hasbro, maker of “Star Wars” toys, is paying plastic tribute to Lucas, interpreting him as a limited-edition action figure in Storm Trooper attire.

The head of the toy maker’s “Star Wars” division called Lucas “the greatest character in the universe.”

“We took a cue from when Han Solo and Luke disguised themselves as Storm Troopers,” said Derryl DePriest, marketing director and admitted lifelong “Star Wars” fan. “We placed George in his own universe that he created.”

This is the first time Lucas has been honored with an official “Star Wars” action figure, DePriest said, but not the first time his likeness has been used. Hasbro had previously issued a figure that looked like Lucas called George Sacul.

“That was very subtle,” DePriest said. “This time we really wanted to pay tribute to the man himself.”

Lucas thought it was a “fun” idea, said Lucasfilm spokeswoman Lynne Hale.

“He laughed because he never imagined he’d be a Storm Trooper,” she said.

The new toy is only available to participants in Hasbro’s “Ultimate Galactic Hunt.” Fans must show proof of purchase of five vintage “Star Wars” action figures to get the George Lucas Storm Trooper figurine.

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