Disney Promises Angry Consumers Princess Leia ‘Star Wars’ Toys for Girls Are Coming

Thanks to #HashtagActivism, the iconic character George Lucas introduced audiences to in 1977 might finally be considered a Disney princess

Carrie Fisher princess leia
Lucasfilm
greg gilman

In response to Twitter hashtag #WeWantLeia, which was spurred by Disney telling a parent in May that “there are no plans for Leia products” at the Disney Store, the corporation has announced “several items that will feature Princess Leia.”

“The current assortment of ‘Star Wars’ products at the Disney Store launched earlier this year, and is just the beginning of what is to come,” a Disney spokeswoman told TIME. “We’re excited to be rolling out new products in the coming months, including several items that will feature Princess Leia, one of the most iconic characters in the ‘Star Wars’ galaxy.”

Also read: Josh Trank to Direct ‘Star Wars’ Movie

The social media movement came just weeks after fans of the muli-billion dollar franchise created by George Lucas were disappointed by the lack of female actresses named in the first casting announcement for “Episode VII,” which J.J. Abrams is directing.

At the time, newcomer Daisy Ridley was the only other female named with Princess Leia herself, Carrie Fisher.

See photos: ‘Star Wars: Episode VII’ Timeline – From Greenlight to J.J. Abrams’ Cast Revealed

Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o and “Game of Thrones” star Gwendoline Christie have since joined the cast, which also includes Oscar Isaac, Adam Driver, John Boyega, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson and Max von Sydow.

The moral of the story seems to be that hashtag activism works — when virtually picketing a corporation, at least.

Also read: Gareth Edwards to Direct ‘Star Wars’ Spinoff Film

Here’s what “Star Wars” fans have been saying on the subject:

 

 

 

 

 

greg gilman

Greg Gilman

Greg Gilman is the singer-songwriter-guitarist of L.A. indie band Greg in Good Company, specializing in catchy rock ‘n’ roll full of heart and soul.

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