If you thought that Jar-Jar Binks was the creative low point in the Star Wars megafranchise, than you thought wrong, Obi-Wan. That dubious title would have to belong to The Star Wars Holiday Special a painfully hacked together hybrid of the first Star Wars film (the good first one), and vaudevillian pile of mid 1970's variety show cheese.


fruit of Chewbacca's furry loins

The two hour CBS broadcast was aired only once on Friday November 17th, 1978. Primarily taking place on Chewbacca's home world of Kashyyyk during the celebration of "Life Day" where we meet Chewbacca's deformed and sweetly stupid family. All of a sudden the Ewoks won't seem that bad. Princess Leia horns in on the act and sings during the painful Life Day ceremony, and Harrison Ford looks like he'd rather be at the dentist's.


Also Starring Art Carney!

If, during the viewing of any of these clips you don't think to yourself "Hey, I think I really might be going insane"... then you clearly weren't paying enough attention. Focus. Watch. Think about it: The OG Star Wars Characters, then add Harvey Korman, Diahnn Caroll, with music by The Jefferson Starship. Christ, I mean Bea Arthur is in this Bantha Fodder...


Dihann Caroll!!

George Lucas initially favored the idea, but only had slight involvement in the project due to production of The Empire Strikes Back. He killed any attempt at re-airing it or making it available for sale on any format. Why, we can only guess.


...and The Jefferson Starship!!!

The Nerdinista are quick to note that the SWHS was the first time the character of bounty hunter (and winner of intergalactic coolest helmet award) Boba Fett had appeared. Beside that small credit, the response to the special historically has been rough. The SWHS was called "the worst two hours of television ever" by David Hofstede, author of What Were They Thinking?: The 100 Dumbest Events in Television History, which awarded the position of #1 to The Star Wars Holiday Special.


this is one of a few YouTube clips available: Boba Fett Cartoon, Princess Leia Sings, Cantina Scene.