Is Star Wars Holiday Special Canon?
The Star Wars Holiday Special, released in 1978, has long been a subject of debate among fans and critics alike. Known for its campy humor, cheesy special effects, and the infamous appearance of a certain Ewok, the special has often been considered non-canon by many Star Wars enthusiasts. However, the question of whether the Star Wars Holiday Special is canon remains a topic of contention. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this debate and delve into the official stance of Lucasfilm regarding the special’s status within the Star Wars universe.
Debate and Controversy
The Star Wars Holiday Special was created as a promotional tool for the upcoming theatrical release of “Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back.” Directed by David Hollander and written by Daryl F. Zanuck, the special featured cameos by the original cast members, including Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher. Despite its star-studded cast, the special received widespread criticism for its low production values and bizarre plotline.
Canon and Non-Canon
The term “canon” in the context of Star Wars refers to the officially recognized elements of the franchise, including the films, novels, comic books, and video games. The Star Wars Holiday Special, however, has never been officially classified as part of the Star Wars canon. In fact, George Lucas, the creator of Star Wars, has publicly stated that he considers the special to be non-canon.
Lucasfilm’s Stance
Lucasfilm, the company that now owns the rights to the Star Wars franchise, has consistently maintained that the Star Wars Holiday Special is not part of the official Star Wars universe. This stance has been reinforced by the company’s decision to omit the special from its official Star Wars media library and to not include it in any official Star Wars merchandise or publications.
Why Does It Matter?
The debate over the Star Wars Holiday Special’s status as canon is more than just a matter of semantics. For many fans, the special represents a dark period in the franchise’s history, one that they would rather forget. By not recognizing the special as canon, Lucasfilm and the Star Wars community can preserve the integrity of the franchise and focus on the high-quality storytelling that has come to define the series.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Star Wars Holiday Special remains a non-canon element of the Star Wars universe. While it may hold a special place in the hearts of some fans, Lucasfilm’s official stance is clear: the special is not part of the Star Wars canon. This decision allows the franchise to move forward and continue to captivate audiences with its rich storytelling and iconic characters.
