Episode list

Since its debut in 1977, Star Wars has revolutionized the way we watch movies, interact with our heroes, and express our fandom. From the feature films to animation, books, games, comics, and more, there's an entry point for every generation. But it's what fans do with their love of the galaxy far, far away that's truly special. Unique, heartwarming, and funny, women and non-binary fans share how they first fell in love with the saga.

Before Twitter and Tumblr, chat rooms and Listservs, early fandom was written and recorded in fanzines. From a few sheets of paper to thick volumes, women wrote and edited hundreds of Star Wars fanzines in the period between 1977 and the early 1990s. These are our fan foremothers: The earliest communities built around connection and creativity, fueled by their love of story. Fan writer, artist, and publisher Maggie Nowakowska takes us on a tour of her extensive print fanzine collection, and describes how fandom helped shape 40 years of community.

Many women and non-binary fans share the experience of having their fandom questioned and subjected to testing, with acquisition of trivia and collectibles set as a benchmark for "real" fandom. But our fandom often shows up in more creative, generative forms. Women discuss how their love of Star Wars goes beyond the screen and into their daily lives through fashion, art, jewelry, and crafts.

Star Wars fans are among some of the most passionate builders and makers. Meet Naila, Psy, and Christina: Three women with no previous building experience who immersed themselves in 3D printing and coding to build screen accurate, fully operational droids. From free-rolling BB-8s to custom astromechs, women droid builders talk about the sense of accomplishment and self-confidence that comes from building favorite their favorite mechanical characters.

In 2013, Star Wars A New Hope became the first major motion picture to be translated into Diné, as a Navajo language preservation effort. Voice actors Clarissa Yazzie (Princess Leia) and Geri Hongeva (C3PO) join translator Jennifer Wheeler to describe the process and impact of the project. Star Wars has been translated into 50 languages, but this translation ensures that the Navajo language will always be preserved in the galaxy far, far away.

What happens when under-represented fans see ourselves on screen? It's a relief of audience labor for marginalized fans, an inspiration, but also validation and essential permission to exist in the fantasy worlds we love. Fans talk about the impact of seeing themselves in the galaxy far, far away, and the ways they create that representation for themselves.

From her on-screen creation of one of film's most iconic heroines to her off-screen work as an author and mental health advocate, Carrie Fisher made an indelible impact on generations of fans. Oaxaca-based non-profit development director Bárbara Lazcano shares how her childhood heroine became a role model of strength and resilience during a difficult time.