A mere three years ago, George Lucas sat in the office of Bob Iger, CEO of Disney, and signed over the rights to his life's major work, the Star Wars series, for a then-staggering $4.06 billion.

The world was still digesting the other headline — there's going to be a Star Wars Episode VII, followed by an VIII and a IX! — but for Lucas, this was the end of an era. After he signed, he blinked; the only sign on his habitually expressionless face of the turmoil within. "There was a lot of emotion," Iger later revealed. "He was saying goodbye."

The world was wracked with its own emotions, as it said hello to the promise of new Star Wars movies without Lucas, the maker of the controversial prequels — and to the agony of a three-year wait before finding out how good further movies could be.

Now the wait is nearly over. There are fewer than 50 days left in the Star Wars advent calendar before the movie we now know as The Force Awakens looks set to break records around the globe. In 2015, it's hard to remember the sale of Lucasfilm, so beguiled are we by the images revealed in trailers viewed hundreds of millions of times.

But when you followed it on the day-to-day level, as I have in my capacity as Mashable's resident Star Wars nerd and author of How Star Wars Conquered the Universe, the past three years have been quite the wild emotional ride in fandom. There were highs of tantalizing information, lows of uninformed speculation, and bumpy moments of conflict when observers wondered if this bucket of bolts would hold together.

But of course it would — just like the Millennium Falcon, it always does. Both the ship and the fandom prosper because they don't take themselves too seriously. At the hardcore, among the most committed and besotted fans, you'll find humor and gentle snark galore. That's the secret to how wide, enduring and passionate this base is. The average fan, male and female, is wide-eyed Luke tempered by hard-nosed comedian Han. They're aware it's a goofy space opera, and the Force is stronger for it.

This epic tweet list, gathered over the past three years, tells the story of a rapidly changing global community. It's all here — the jokes, the rumors, the explosions of excitement as a scrap of information slips out of one of three closely guarded fortresses (Lucasfilm, Disney and J.J. Abrams' production company Bad Robot).

It is also a masterclass in how a group of entertainment professionals can captivate the world with a tiny but steady drip of new information. Or, as actor Rob Lowe put it after viewing the third and final trailer this month:

The PR team behind the new #StarWars should run this entire country. — Rob Lowe (@RobLowe) October 20, 2015

2012

It may be no surprise to us now that social media would be abuzz over the long-to-be-untitled Episode VII, but remember, this was uncharted waters. A new Star Wars movie had not been announced in Twitter's lifetime.

One old Star Wars hand was pretty excited, too — though his desire to play a role in the upcoming film would come to naught.

I hope they do remakes of original Star Wars movies and convert the anger it generates in fans into clean energy to power our cities. — Eugene Mirman (@EugeneMirman) November 6, 2012

Oh yeah, there was an election around this time too.

Han Solo lets Nate Silver tell him the odds. #natesilverfacts — Alexandra Petri (@petridishes) November 7, 2012

Right from the start, the Star Wars Internet liked to make fun of Star Wars Internet.

"Ugh, can you believe they got GEORGE LUCAS to write Star Wars Episode IV?" - the one guy on the Internet in 1975 — DC Pierson (@DCpierson) November 10, 2012

Just got into a bar fight over how Angry Birds Star Wars fits into the Star Wars Expanded Universe. — Conan O'Brien (@ConanOBrien) November 19, 2012

Mark Hamill started getting in shape for his as-yet-unannounced role ...

I don't know about you but I always have to eat products w/my face on it- plus I had to make sure it wasnt decades old pic.twitter.com/ARlg4haB — Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) November 24, 2012

There were so many implications of the Disney deal, it took fans a long time to think through them.

so Disney bought Lucasfilm, can they please make this movie now? pic.twitter.com/1cBlCgtB — Matthew Inman (@Oatmeal) November 27, 2012

1/2 Tensions ran high at the Disney Christmas party. pic.twitter.com/DzZJa6BW — Pegg News (@simonpegg) December 1, 2012

2/2 Eventually things warmed up and new friendships were forged. pic.twitter.com/YvPmVAd9 — Pegg News (@simonpegg) December 1, 2012

It was a very merry Star Wars-y Christmas — especially at Lucasfilm.

2013

But after the short ceasefire for the festivities, nerd warfare over the new movies broke out again in earnest.

If you want the sequel trilogy to be "darker and grittier," might I suggest watching Battlestar Galactica instead? — Brian (@LaneWinree) January 5, 2013

Even among official Star Wars licensees, such as this comics writer ...

My latest Star Wars pitch: Han shoots first, and Disney says, “Uh, this kind of behavior doesn’t really fit with Disney’s family image.” — Randy Stradley (@Randy_Stradley) January 7, 2013

And big-time comedians discovered you can never troll the fans too much.

Amazing! Surprise screening of Star Wars Episode VII at this morning's Illuminati meeting. So great. — Aziz Ansari (@azizansari) January 17, 2013

For the first, but not the last time, it was a winter full of Star Wars references.

I promised myself I wouldn't tweet about the snow, but my brother just made this, and it's awesome. #r2d2 #starwars pic.twitter.com/6wwkpdBg — Hannah George (@HannahMGeorge) January 20, 2013

Explained to 8yo that the "This Is CNN" guy is also Darth Vader's voice. Him: "CNN is kind of like the Empire" — James Poniewozik (@poniewozik) January 22, 2013

Late January saw confirmation that J.J. Abrams would direct Episode VII — fresh from his stint on Star Trek: Into Darkness.

The actor who played Jar Jar Binks met Andy Serkis, kicking off a class of tweets that now look eerily prescient.

Jar Jar and Gollum together at last. pic.twitter.com/tSNkNqQH — Ahmed BEst (@ahmedbest) January 30, 2013

Rumors of spin-off movies — and of the original trio of leads returning to the film, partly confirmed by George Lucas — began in earnest.

Meanwhile, Pope Benedict resigned, and fans had ideas for his replacement.

I wish Ben Kenobi were in line for the papacy because then I'd be like help me obi-wan you're my only Pope and we'd laugh so hard then kiss. — |\/|@r|{ )(0%ü$ (@markhoppus) February 17, 2013

But mostly, in the absence of new movie information, they tweeted about the everyday life of being a Star Wars fan — or in many cases among the original trilogy generation, being a Star Wars parent.

In his innocent days before he sparked an international incident with The Interview, Seth Rogen offered one of the best suggestions for how to open Episode VII:

First line of the new Star Wars movie: "Damn those ewoks can party. Now what?" — Seth Rogen (@Sethrogen) March 8, 2013

Meanwhile, George Lucas' daughter Amanda noticed something curious in Las Vegas:

Lucasfilm began combating rumors by insisting it would only reveal new information on its website. The company needed to say that a lot.

I'm becoming increasingly inclined to get a t-shirt that says "It's Not Confirmed Until It's On http://t.co/TtaZPu2s36." — Bria (@chaosbria) March 12, 2013

The world met Pope Francis, and still saw Star Wars in everything.

Well, I'll give this to the new pope. He doesn't look like a Star Wars villain, so he's got that going for him. — KristinAHogan (@SparkleKristin) March 16, 2013

Wallace & Gromit x Star Wars - amazing fan art by @spando621! pic.twitter.com/qnBAyWMlYO — Katie McQuin-Roberts (@mcquinny) March 18, 2013

Photo of the day: Imperial Star Destroyer spotted over Finland! pic.twitter.com/yGBw49U85U — Alex Wain (@alexwain) March 21, 2013

More suggestions for Episode VII would prove to be somewhat accurate — at least, when they came to self-made lightsabers, or Gwendolyn Christie.

In a darkened hut on Endor, Darth Wicket snaps the red crystal into place and ignites his new lightsabre. The Sith live on! #EpisodeVII — Jim Thomson (@jrt1138) March 30, 2013

Marvel, DC and Lucasfilm need to go "Game of Thrones actor shopping". Almost any of them is worthy to be in a CBM/Star wars film — Daenerys Targaryen (@Daenerys_ASOIAF) March 30, 2013

Then Lucasfilm chief Kathleen Kennedy shut down Lucasfilm's storied but struggling games division, LucasArts.

It's easy to forget that LucasArts, for a lot of us, is what kept Star Wars alive and kicking in a time when there was nothing else coming. — Joey Esposito (@joeyesposito) April 3, 2013

And we bid farewell to one of Star Wars' greatest supporters among mainstream critics, Roger Ebert.

I bet Siskel & Ebert are watching Star Wars 7, 8 and 9 right now and wondering if they're really in heaven — Wonderella (@wonderella) April 5, 2013

Still, Star Wars characters continued to crop up in the most unlikely places.

Instead of "Yoga," I typed, "I've got to do Yoda tomorrow," which is a very different thing. "Take me to dinner first you must, hmm? Hmm?" — Paul S. Kemp (@Paulskemp) April 12, 2013

I have seen crazy stuff at the @GGBridge. But this is one I have never seen. Until today. #StarWars #Stormtrooper pic.twitter.com/P4xWP3bdNQ — CHP Marin (@CHPMarin) April 14, 2013

At CinemaCon in Las Vegas, Disney confirmed that spin-off movies would be released in the years in between numbered Star Wars episodes. The company had said this before, but never used the words "every year." The Internet went nuts.

A Star Wars movie every summer starting 2015? I'm going to put my head in a bucket of water full of piranhas while I puke in excitement. Bye — Ryan Malin (@BrushYourTeeth) April 17, 2013

Star Wars superfan Simon Pegg got J.J. Abrams to talk on camera for the first time about Episode VII, and had a suggestion for the title.

Two blokes talking about Star Wars. http://t.co/MPd4QWn2Qn — Pegg News (@simonpegg) May 3, 2013

Then we came to May the 4th, which saw its first widespread celebration as "Star Wars day" in 2013 — though some fans were already over the pun.

'Say it!' the books shout. 'Say the date like you're in Star Wars!' 'No,' I say. 'I won't do it. We're better than that. We all are.' — WaterstonesOxfordSt (@WstonesOxfordSt) May 4, 2013

Guys I'm starting to get the feeling that Star Wars Day isn't even a real holiday. — Matthew D'Ambrosio (@drmattdambrosio) May 4, 2013

Still, everyone got in on the act, from presidents to astronauts to local police.

Happy Star Wars Day! http://t.co/bAZ1KDgR4n #maythefourthbewithyou (We're still not building a Death Star: http://t.co/UrQwhywLTM) — The White House (@WhiteHouse) May 4, 2013

There is no try - only do. May the 4th be with you. pic.twitter.com/9g1FTtUFZ8 — Chris Hadfield (@Cmdr_Hadfield) May 4, 2013

Obviously you're supposed to watch the original Trilogy on May the Fourth and the Prequels on Revenge of the Fifth. Thought that was obvious — MOONY (@europa_666) May 4, 2013

So much regret on the day after Star Wars Day. Seeing a lot of wookiees of shame. — Dave Itzkoff (@ditzkoff) May 5, 2013

Meanwhile, that whole "Vadering" thing — remember that? — was well on its way to becoming a meme:

I see your 2 "vadered" people and raise you 70 police cadets. #vadering pic.twitter.com/7hG1djOPWk — Jeanelle Van Buskirk (@J_VanBuskirk7) May 9, 2013

Another prescient thought about Episode VII:

Oh man. In all the fuss over whether Hamill, Fisher and Ford will be back or not, this has been overlooked. WE MIGHT SEE THE FALCON AGAIN. — Brian (@brian_nov) May 10, 2013

Star Wars weekends were celebrated at Disney World for the first time since the sale, and Return of the Jedi turned 30 years old.

Did a double take @ lunch. Campus getting in on Return of the Jedi anniversary fun. Cc: @starwars pic.twitter.com/m9i1b5BnQ4 — Chris Argyropoulos (@ThatChrisA) May 22, 2013

The rumor mill continued unabated ...

Hey news outlets: reporting that an actor wants to be in #StarWars Episode VII is not news. Everyone wants to be in #StarWarsVII. — Matt Martin (@missingwords) May 23, 2013

... as did the trolling.

If the next Star Wars film doesn't finally reveal why Skeletor hates House Atreides I'm gonna be so angry. — The Waco Kid (@johnwarrender) May 29, 2013

Meanwhile, just about everything in real life media became inspiration for a Star Wars tweet.

Spotted at Whole Foods: Chewie endorses organic...because he's worth it! pic.twitter.com/t9dWIDYOZ2 — Linda Hansen-Raj (@LindaHansenRaj) June 6, 2013

Chewbacca actor Peter Mayhew, preparing for a knee operation, began making appearances with a lightsaber cane.

A lightsaber cane? I don't want to nitpick, but technically if Chewbacca needs help walking, he should use bowcaster crutches. — Stephen Colbert (@StephenAtHome) June 12, 2013

George Lucas received a daytime Emmy for the now-cancelled Clone Wars cartoon, delivered with the ecstatic approval of Carrie Fisher ...

If you didn't watch #DaytimeEmmys LIVE, this was THE moment @CarrieFFisher George Lucas pic.twitter.com/QAh31AGeIc — Kathy Griffin (@kathygriffin) June 17, 2013

... and rounded out the month by getting married to long-time girlfriend Mellody Hobson.

George Lucas recently tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony. In the wedding video, Han toasts first. — Stephen Colbert (@StephenAtHome) June 26, 2013

The Force was with me last night... I attended George Lucas' wedding reception in Chicago, with cabaret by Prince! #OutOfThisWorld — Warwick Davis (@WarwickADavis) June 30, 2013

And Star Wars continued to seep into everything.

Summertime is San Diego Comic-Con time, and TV celebrities were proud to wear their Star Wars fandom on their sleeves (and just about everywhere else.)

We have so much to talk about, master... #sdcc pic.twitter.com/NMTXtbJg8U — Clark Gregg (@clarkgregg) July 20, 2013

The first Sharknado movie was a thing that happened.

In August, Lucasfilm's biannual Star Wars event, called Celebration, got underway in Essen, Germany. There were reunions aplenty, but precious little news.

The cast of Return of the Jedi reunited at #StarWarsCelebration. #rotj30 pic.twitter.com/oL2vU3Jeld — Star Wars (@starwars) July 25, 2013

In an effort to avoid panic we should all travel to the next @SW_Celebration in single file to hide our numbers. #HeadsUpAnaheim — Consetta Parker (@parkerpublicist) July 28, 2013

The convention offered little in the way of information about the new movie, other than the fact that John Williams would supply the music again. Fans continued to supply their own thoughts.

Another month, another conference: Disney fan event D23 featured a mysterious "orange crate" that contained unseen plans for Star Wars theme park rides, as well as the first Disney Princess Leia costumes.

The tagline on the Orange Harvest #StarWars crate at D23 is "Speculation Beyond Imagination", which pretty much sums up the Internet on Ep7. — Kay (@Geek_Kay) August 9, 2013

Another Princess Leia in a ball gown (and she's hanging out with Ariel): #StarWars #D23Expo pic.twitter.com/xQrCjuutmx — Amy Ratcliffe (@amy_geek) August 11, 2013

But otherwise, the conference once again refused to address any details on the new movie.

We officially know more about Area 51 than we know about the next #StarWars movie. — Cole Horton (@ColeHorton) August 16, 2013

Fans started comparing the secrecy levels to those surrounding the iPhone 5S.

Star Wars 7 features new icons, force sensors and a remagined way of interacting with droid devices. — Anil Dash (@anildash) August 16, 2013

I saw a prototype of the Gold iPhone, it looks like C3PO's codpiece. — Downtown Josh Brown (@ReformedBroker) August 19, 2013

In fact, there were an awful lot of tech world connections to be made.

Rumors that Benedict Cumberbatch would appear in the new movie were refuted repeatedly.

"No Sith, Sherlock." = best headline I've seen in weeks. — Matt Martin (@missingwords) September 4, 2013

Every time you state a Star Wars Episode VII rumor as fact, they add a Gungan to the movie. #StarWars — Amy Ratcliffe (@amy_geek) September 12, 2013

But as the hype levels increased, you couldn't get away from Star Wars at your local ballpark ...

From a galaxy far, far away, feared bounty hunter Boba Fett tosses the first pitch. #StarWarsNight https://t.co/ogyP5d0t7x — Oakland Athletics (@Athletics) September 21, 2013

... or even in the night sky.

Let the Wookiee walk: Peter Mayhew had a successful knee operation.

Chewbacca stands! @TheWookieeRoars gives his cyborg Wookiee kneecaps their first test run! Way to go Peter!!! pic.twitter.com/txSFCFEH6o — 501st Legion (@501stLegion) September 27, 2013

Flowers from George Lucas would make anybodies day better pic.twitter.com/tV9DiUEsaV — Peter Mayhew (@TheWookieeRoars) September 28, 2013

The mayor of London got in on the Star Wars act — along with another old Star Wars hand, now sadly departed.

Delighted to host Sir Christopher Lee this morning to help launch @BFI #LFF - and get expert advice on my lightsaber! pic.twitter.com/7Zlxq2oVGT — Boris Johnson (@MayorofLondon) October 7, 2013

Screenwriter Michael Arndt left the production of Episode VII in a haze of rumors that his script had been rejected by J.J. Abrams, who took over writing with Star Wars veteran Lawrence Kasdan.

Man, the things I'd do to read the rejected Michael Arndt Star Wars Episode VII script. Sick, twisted, disgusting things. — Germain Lussier (@GermainLussier) October 24, 2013

And over on ABC, a sign of Star Wars integration into other Disney properties:

Once Upon a Time in Wonderland just mentioned a sarlacc like it's a normal part of Wonderland. Huh. #OnceWonderland — Amy Ratcliffe (@amy_geek) October 25, 2013

Fall arrived — as did the mysterious Google Barge. No corner of the country, the White House included, was Star Wars-free.

Even wrestling stars dressed up as Star Wars characters that Halloween.

Netflix had a hit with House of Cards — but we wanted more.

*seductively whispers in netflix's ear* make four star wars shows with disney next, we will watch those too, i promise — peppermint caf (@nicolecieux) November 7, 2013

Finally, a scrap of news about Episode VII: It would be released in December 2015. Or would it?

Casting calls for the movie took place across the U.S. and the UK — and were a little oversubscribed, to say the least.

No sooner had the casting calls ended than the first returning star was officially announced, in this tweet:

Meanwhile, back on the home front:

Observers couldn't help but notice that the original trio of stars were staying studiously silent about their plans.

That Fisher woman has been too quiet lately... — William Shatner (@WilliamShatner) November 30, 2013

Holiday time again:

Lucasfilm lobby holiday decor. Mace Windu would totally approve. pic.twitter.com/XApV5NJ2zD — Tracy Cannobbio (@Tcann13) December 4, 2013

I’m kind of worried that if the Bay freezes solid those Imperial Walkers over in Oakland will make their move on SF. #saveussutro — Burrito Justice (@burritojustice) December 10, 2013

I saw the Star Wars Holiday Special for the first time tonight. I don't think I need to say anything else. *drops mic* *exits via window* — Maureen Johnson (@maureenjohnson) December 21, 2013

Looking forward to 2014 when we'll be able to talk about some of the things we haven't been able to talk about. — Leland Chee (@HolocronKeeper) December 24, 2013

2014

As the new year began, Disney altered another bargain: Lucasfilm announced that Star Wars comics would henceforth leave licensee Dark Horse and return to Marvel.

Complicated feelings today. Loved working with Dark Horse and am proud of all they did. But also looking forward to what Marvel will bring. — Jennifer Heddle (@jenheddle) January 3, 2014

But Spike TV remained your source for endless Star Wars movie marathons.

I assume Spike TV has only one employee, whose job is to rewind Star Wars and hit play again. — pourmecoffee (@pourmecoffee) January 5, 2014

Lucasfilm announced the creation of a "Story Group," which would guide the creation of movies and TV shows going forth. Some fans feared this would affect the "Expanded Universe" of books and comics — and as it turned out, the conspiracy theories were true.

If this is the average #SWEU fan's response to the very idea of the Story Group, things are gonna get interesting. pic.twitter.com/xAknhcX7Fw — Eric Geller (@ericgeller) January 10, 2014

Star Wars was still everywhere.

The 501st Legion, a global charity-minded Stormtrooper costuming group, announced a banner year.

The costumes are cool & the troopin' is fun, but it feels great to be making a difference! #BadGuysDoingGood #501st pic.twitter.com/6bnkYhd8bj — 501st Legion (@501stLegion) February 11, 2014

Valentine's Day? More like Vadertine's Day, amirite?

"It might sting now, but you'll be grateful later." Classic from the creative genius of Stephen Hayford! @starwars pic.twitter.com/qYiBaLFk9R — StarWarsintheClass (@StarWarsinClass) February 14, 2014

Unseen episodes of the Clone Wars animated TV show arrived on Netflix.

Heh, as someone pointed out in the comments on IGN, Star Wars: The Clone Wars did indeed get six seasons and a movie. #livethedream — Eric Goldman (@EricIGN) March 8, 2014

The pace of Star Wars news picked up in March, when Lando Calrissian (a.k.a. Billy Dee Williams) appeared on Dancing with the Stars ....

Getting a lot of requests to wear a cape at some point during @DancingABC! What do you think? #DWTS #TeamSlando — Billy Dee Williams (@realbdw) March 12, 2014

I'm sorry Ewoks ruined your Very Serious Drama about space magic and laser swords #FISTFIGHTFRIDAY — Good Ken Wenceslas (@kenlowery) March 21, 2014

... and finally, finally we got Episode VII details. Hamill, Fisher and Ford would return, and the movie would be set 30 years after Return of the Jedi. This was not entirely surprising.

It's 30 years after Return of the Jedi and there's a tremor in the Force. As if a million souls all cried out at once, "No shit, Sherlock!" — Star Wars Plots (@StarWarsPlots) March 18, 2014

What was surprising: An executive at toy licensee Hasbro tweeted from the Episode VII set, and deleted his account shortly after.

Hasbro guy visits the #StarWarsVII set at Pinewood, tweets, and now his account is deleted. We know what happened. pic.twitter.com/e3SAznd3cy — Jeremy Conrad (@ManaByte) March 18, 2014

Security on Episode VII got increasingly intense.

A friend was at Pinewood yesterday. SW production has moved in. JJ Abrams is there. All LFL windows have been covered with reflective glass. — Ali Arikan (@aliarikan) March 29, 2014

But how well could the production do when three Star Trek stars kidnapped its director?

I'm sorry Mr. Lucas but we have no idea where JJ is. pic.twitter.com/3nvZJdD2e7 — Pegg News (@simonpegg) March 30, 2014

Starved for more news, fans wondered what secrets the Lucasfilm whiteboards could reveal.

Meanwhile, back in everyday life:

Whenever people write "lol" I feel like they're trying to attack me with a tiny Tie Fighter. #starwars — Aristotle Dreher (@AristotleDreher) April 18, 2014

The dreaded announcement came: as feared, the Lucasfilm Story Group had removed the Expanded Universe from official continuity. Stories about beloved characters such as Mara Jade, formerly Luke Skywalker's wife, would have no impact on the movies going forward.

You can't win, Lucasfilm. If you strike the Expanded Universe down, Mara Jade fans shall become more whiny than you could possibly imagine. — Brendan Hay (@B_Hay) April 25, 2014

This is a movie franchise. MOVIES lead. #SWEU — Duncatrix (@clubjade) April 25, 2014

Wait a minute - does this mean that @theMaraJade is single??? Heyyyoooo! #SWEU — Mediocre Jedi (@MediocreJedi) April 25, 2014

But then came the picture and the names everyone wanted to see: the cast of Episode VII. Chief among those names: Oscar Isaac, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega. A thousand memes were launched.

I don't know why you would bother to photograph the cast of a new Star Wars movie sitting in a circle with not ONE of them in a hoverchair. — James Poniewozik (@poniewozik) April 29, 2014

Watching the new STAR WARS cast announced is like watching a bunch of wolves coo over a baby they're going to eat later. — Linda Holmes (@nprmonkeysee) April 29, 2014

Three people are wearing plaid in the Star Wars group photo. George Lucas is there in spirit. — Ali Arikan (@aliarikan) April 29, 2014

Maybe in Episode VIII they'll discover the planet where all the women in their galaxy are hiding out. — Chris Holm (@chrisfholm) April 29, 2014

UK table read- I was knocked out by the diverse & extraordinarily talented new cast members. WOW they're good! The saga is in superb hands. — Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) May 1, 2014

May the 4th rolled around again — and again, plenty of local police got in on the action. What is it about police and the Force?

If you're making the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs, be ready to face the consequences. #starwarsday pic.twitter.com/LBfYUSLrAA — Portland Police (@PortlandPolice) May 4, 2014

But again, many fans bellyached about how sick of May the 4th they were.

If you need a special day to make "Star Wars" jokes, then you truly haven't accepted "Star Wars" in your heart. — Mike Drucker (@MikeDrucker) May 4, 2014

18 years ago I helped popularize "May the 4th be with you" on @theforcenet I'm now thinking I didn't think that one all the way through. — Scott Chitwood (@Red5Aggie) May 4, 2014

Episode VII filming was officially underway. Twitter got a little excited.

Right now, somewhere, Harrison Ford has a bad feeling about this. — Eleven-ThirtyEight (@eleventhirtyate) May 16, 2014

Guys, I get it. Star Wars started filming. — alisonhaislip (@alisonhaislip) May 16, 2014

J.J. Abrams announced a charity contest with the prize of a walk-on part in Episode VII. The video showed a strange unnamed puppet creature on a desert set in the background.

Seriously though are Lucasfilm employees eligible for this SWVII contest or what. Asking for a friend. #totallyaskingforme — Jennifer Heddle (@jenheddle) May 21, 2014

They said Disney would want too much control over these new Star Wars movies, but I don't see it. pic.twitter.com/LfjU7wflcd — Dave Itzkoff (@ditzkoff) May 21, 2014

The puppet creature got a parody account, naturally.

Hot. So very hot. So hot that some guy in glasses is talking to himself. — Star Wars Character (@swcharacter) May 21, 2014

The first Star Wars spin-off movie — still unnamed, with a still-mysterious subject, to be released in 2016 — got a writer, Gary Whitta. He turned out to be quite the tweeter.

This is where the fun begins… — Merry Whitta (@garywhitta) May 22, 2014

My feed is slightly nutty right now. Can’t keep up. Many thanks for all the kind words and well wishes. MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU ALL. — Merry Whitta (@garywhitta) May 22, 2014

My kids will grow up in a world with a new Star Wars every year. They'll never understand desperate longing; they'll never know true pain. — Joey Esposito (@joeyesposito) May 23, 2014

Again, nerds celebrated May 25 as the true Star Wars day.

Star Wars is 37 years old today and somewhere in the world, in the care of a very talented group of people, it is coming back. Can't wait. — Pegg News (@simonpegg) May 25, 2014

The only thing I remember about seeing SW in 1977 is coming home and playing in my pool that I was on the Death Star, about to blow up. — Jennifer Heddle (@jenheddle) May 25, 2014

A lot of cast members started growing beards — not just Mark Hamill.

Serkis is clearly playing the world's oldest Padawan in #StarWarsVII, old guy in every community liberal arts course. pic.twitter.com/qrwUUhASlM — Jason Ward (@MakingStarWars) May 30, 2014

Then two great actors were added to the lineup — Lupita N'yongo and Game of Thrones' Gwendolyn Christie.

I just really want to watch deliciously tall Brienne wipe the floor with deliciously tall Adam Driver. I will pay all the star bucks. — Joanna Robinson (@jowrotethis) June 2, 2014

The first Star Wars spin-off movie got a director. Nobody knew at the time he would lose his job after reports of damaging behavior filtered in from the Fantastic Four set.

Josh Trank is the only Star Wars director who sounds like he could be a Star Wars character. Therefore I fully endorse this news. — Chris Hewitt (@ChrisHewitt) June 4, 2014

Nostalgia and a graceful acceptance of age was in the air.

Warming to the idea of Mark Hamill as a weathered, battered, somewhat crazy Jedi Master. — Jason Fry (@jasoncfry) June 5, 2014

All that love for original-trilogy actors came in handy when Harrison Ford had an on-set accident that would delay filming for weeks.

J.J. Abrams three months ago: "Come on, Harrison, what's the worst that could happen?" Smash cut to Ford being airlifted off of the set. — Mike Ryan (@mikeryan) June 12, 2014

Take a look at the new Star Wars cast! - mh pic.twitter.com/1DRQwBts8p — yelahttam (@yelahttam) June 15, 2014

GEORGE LUCAS ALREADY MAKING CHANGES TO NEW STAR WARS SEQUELS! TRUE FANS KNOW HAN BROKE HIS ANKLE FIRST! — DRUNK HULK (@DRUNKHULK) June 19, 2014

As if timed to distract attention from the on-set snafu, Lucasfilm announced the director for Episode VIII.

Rian Mother Fuc*%#i^ Johnson!!!!! Congratulations on Star Wars buddy!! You are going to kill it. Send him love people @rianjohnson #Jedi — Aaron Paul (@aaronpaul_8) June 20, 2014

"Back in MY day we had to wait 5 years for a sequel, and sometimes we didn't even get one!" "Shut up Grandpa, Star Wars 48 and 49 are on." — Spencer Perry (@TheSpencerPerry) June 20, 2014

There are no Star Wars movies, just an endless stream of Star Wars news content that shall never die. — Morgan Leigh Davies (@MLDavies) June 20, 2014

But Episode VII was still sucking all the oxygen out of the room.

Guys! I found a leaked page of the latest Star Wars VII revisions online! @WitStreamdotcom @starwars pic.twitter.com/xBSUgbwNth — Rob Sheridan (@robertdsheridan) June 21, 2014

Who REALLY cameos in Episode VII? Here's the skinny: Simon Pegg — yes Tom Cruise — no Boyega's dad — no Flo (from Progressive) — yes — Star Wars Character (@swcharacter) June 23, 2014

Plans moved ahead for the new Marvel comics and for the forthcoming TV show Rebels, which featured a brand new droid. Lucasfilm took him for a spin.

Busy times in the office so everyone is pitching in! Thanks for taking one for the team Chopper. #starwars pic.twitter.com/41BQmmO7eO — Matt Martin (@missingwords) June 27, 2014

I'm glad that we can finally announce that in the Marvel Star Wars comics, Luke Skywalker is a woman and Han Solo is a black man. — Jennifer Heddle (@jenheddle) July 17, 2014

But mostly, we were still talking about Harrison.

And then Han Solo angrily yells, "Luke's hand?! What about my damn leg?!?!" — Scott Foy (@Foywonder) July 20, 2014

There was an odd rumor doing the rounds about how Episode VII would begin. Make of it what you will.

EXT. SPACE IMPERIAL OFFICER [VO] "Captain, what is that coming toward us?" IMPERIAL CAPTAIN [VO] "Is that...a hand??!" #StarWarsVII — Eric Geller (@ericgeller) July 21, 2014

And J.J. Abrams made another charity video, which reintroduced a fan favorite vehicle.

A nice look at the pilot. Is that a lightsaber on his belt!?! ;) #starwarsvii pic.twitter.com/dNTrjEjqlf — Andrew Lupi (@MasterAndrew15) July 21, 2014

You didn't hear it here but that X-wing is a pampered no-talent diva. — Star Wars Character (@swcharacter) July 21, 2014

Lucasfilm made a splash at Comic-Con 2014, where it hosted parties and premiered Rebels.

Big takeaway from talking to Lucasfilm people tonight: look out Marvel, these guys are about to redefine longform shared storytelling. — Devin Faraci (@devincf) July 24, 2014

#StarWarsRebels was incredible. They knocked it out of the park. — Bryan Young (@swankmotron) July 25, 2014

It was getting harder to paper over concerns about Han Solo's hospitalization, and the lack of word about anything from the set — except Kevin Smith revealed that the new movie would have Stormtroopers. Hard to remember now, but we didn't even know that for sure.

This is what we've come to: Wall street analyst asking Disney CEO Bob Iger about Harrison Ford's ankle injury on Star Wars set — Ben Fritz (@benfritz) August 5, 2014

There are actually a BUNCH of new stormtroopers in this movie, including striketroopers, freezetroopers, Frankentrooper and Count Troopula. — Star Wars Character (@swcharacter) August 15, 2014

As the killing of Michael Brown in Ferguson and its aftermath shocked the world, one of the best metaphors for the problem with the local authorities was drawn from Star Wars.

Best possible guide for all public servants from now on: RT @AldrichPatrick: "More Jedi, less Stormtrooper.” — Eric Garland (@ericgarland) August 15, 2014

Life was tough at Lucasfilm.

Artoo made a rare appearance to surprise some visiting tourists. The look on children’s faces = highlight of my week. pic.twitter.com/eFsf3iCoCU — Merry Whitta (@garywhitta) August 22, 2014

I may be tired, stressed, and anxious. But I’ve never felt more creatively excited in my entire life. Holy balls this is some cool stuff. — Merry Whitta (@garywhitta) September 18, 2014

The Apple Watch was announced. From an apparently Imperial part of the secret set, J.J. Abrams sent his approval.

Mere months before his death, Leonard Nimoy bridged the gap between the two franchises.

With George Lucas. Star Trek meets Star Wars. LLAP pic.twitter.com/LboFqofGUV — Leonard Nimoy (@TheRealNimoy) September 9, 2014

Meanwhile the two actors who most embodied the future of Star Wars were becoming friendly and familiar to fans — but had to withdraw from one overly social medium.

The playful relationship that John Boyega and Daisy Ridley have on social media makes me very eager to see them together in "Star Wars." — DrewAtHitFix (@DrewAtHitFix) September 18, 2014

I'm legitimately bummed about Boyega & Ridley being off Twitter. I totally get it professionally but their passion was infectious & harmless — Germain Lussier (@GermainLussier) September 29, 2014

Location photos appeared in newspapers courtesy of a pilot who claimed he just happened to be flying over the area of filming.

Flew over the UK in a 737 the other day. Sadly, no X-wings to be seen out the window. — Eleven-ThirtyEight (@eleventhirtyate) September 21, 2014

Fans debated a bizarre theory in which Boba Fett was hired to kill Luke's aunt and uncle:

Why doesn't Barack Obama tell us the truth about the mysterious deaths of Uncle Owen and Aunt Beru? Why does he protect Fett? — Da7e Gonzales (@Da7e) October 3, 2014

Suddenly it seemed Star Wars was everywhere at once — on TV with the launch of Rebels, in Hollywood, even in Ukraine.

When I was my daughter's age, "Star Wars on television" meant the Holiday Special. You've come a long way, baby. #StarWarsRebels — John Jackson Miller (@jjmfaraway) October 4, 2014

He told me the entire story of the new Star Wars movies. And then I told him an idea I have for a funny tweet. pic.twitter.com/oN0x2iNY6O — Judd Apatow (@JuddApatow) October 10, 2014

@meganspecia And campaign ads like this all over Kiev. Reads: "Hit the hairy paws of corruption! - Stepan Chewbacca. pic.twitter.com/rCyeq9r7Jk — Christopher Miller (@ChristopherJM) October 10, 2014

Yet another casting announcement: The guy who played the Ewok, Wicket, was coming back in a still-unknown role.

Wow! I am overwhelmed to hear how pleased you all are that I'm going back to that famous galaxy, far, far away... Thank you @starwars #JJ — Warwick Davis (@WarwickADavis) October 16, 2014

The novel Tarkin was notable for revealing the first name of the Emperor for the first time. And it was a very, very odd name.

Officially started referring to Palpatine as Sheev in work e-mails. I suppose it's better than my previous term: Palps. #StarWars — Matt Martin (@missingwords) October 16, 2014

Are people upset about "Sheev" Palpatine? I know it's not a normal name like Obi-Wan or Lando or Anakin, but... — Jennifer Heddle (@jenheddle) October 17, 2014

Fans had questions about Rebels.

I keep hearing people ask "how can a TIE fighter fly sideways?" My answer: how can a TIE fighter fly at all? #StarWarsRebels — Matt Martin (@missingwords) October 21, 2014

And then, joy of joys, fandom finally had a movie title to kick around. Episode VII no more.

This is the most epic thing. RT @wakingthedead17: Oh my god, someone totally missed what happened. via @Madilorian pic.twitter.com/IQWZmpzaIP — Eric Geller (@ericgeller) November 6, 2014

"Queen Gimmedala" guessed the new Star Wars title on Dec 28, 2012 on a http://t.co/8Zz7zO72Hy message board. pic.twitter.com/Wv6VdiiA7O — Mike Ryan (@mikeryan) November 6, 2014

in true Disney fashion, The Force Awakens when Luke Skywalker plants a sleeping Darth Vader with a single kiss pic.twitter.com/lhpBvPxXpo — Matt Binder (@MattBinder) November 6, 2014

The important thing is, no other movie's title would take over the whole damn internet. — Jennifer Heddle (@jenheddle) November 6, 2014

Worth noting, @StarWars bought the domain names TODAY as not to have the title leak out. pic.twitter.com/eV7O6FboMz — James Viscardi (@JimViscardi) November 6, 2014

Have also confirmed that "Episode VII" WILL be in the opening crawl to show continuity, although it is not part of the movie's title. — Eric Geller (@ericgeller) November 6, 2014

#EpisodeVII @OfficialWars The Force Awakens-(in a Kansas farmhouse only to discover it was all a dream) Did I get to this joke 1st? Hope so! — Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) November 9, 2014

It started to seem like Star Wars had been around for centuries.

Medieval "Yoda" in the Smithfield Decretals, c 1300-c 1340 pic.twitter.com/zOBoMtWolu — ✍ Bibliophilia (@Libroantiguo) November 12, 2014

In November, the drumbeat of rumors about a forthcoming trailer grew deafening.

There are 5,400 frames of video in the upcoming trailer for Star Wars VII, and each one shall be introduced by a YouTube trailer of its own. — Anil Dash (@anildash) November 19, 2014

#Ep7TeaserWishList - Millennium Falcon in flight - Luke igniting saber - Friends ignoring my tears #StarWars #TheForceAwakens — This Isn't The Pod (@ThisIsntThePod) November 26, 2014

The trailer easily surpassed expectations — though the reaction was slightly marred by a handful of racist complaints.

Hooray. For 37 years I've wanted a movie about the humans behind those Stormtrooper masks. Looks like we've got one. — Paul_Dini (@Paul_Dini) November 28, 2014

Let's take moment to consider the fact that the 1st trailer for the biggest most anticipated movie of the decade features zero white dudes. — Jonathan McIntosh (@radicalbytes) November 28, 2014

By the time of Ep. IV, few if any stormtroopers were clones — so complaining about a black stormtrooper makes you racist AND a bad nerd. — Yes, You're Racist (@YesYoureRacist) November 28, 2014

Most shocking thing about the "stormtroopers aren't black!" crap today is that there are people who thought Jango Fett looked white. — Duncatrix (@clubjade) November 29, 2014

I wish EVERY trailer were like that STAR WARS teaser. Imagery. Tone. Music. A line or two. NO STORY BEATS. We used to know how to do this. — Chris Klimek (@ctklimek) November 28, 2014

BB-8, then known only as "the soccer-ball droid," was already working his way into the world's affections — with mere seconds of screen time.

I mean, look at this guy! It's like if R2D2 and Wilson from Cast Away had a baby. #starwars #cutedroidalert pic.twitter.com/vtMuC5cIJe — Melanie Crissey (@MelanieCrissey) November 28, 2014

There's already seven novels about that soccer ball droid from the Star Wars trailer. — The Cozy Dark (@bombsfall) November 28, 2014

For some reason, parts of the trailer made viewers hungry.

In the future, everyone will ride chocolate jello pudding pops... #TheForceAwakens pic.twitter.com/gdRQJ0qrFT — Jangos Revenge (@JangosRevenge) November 29, 2014

For the Sith that wants to fight Jedi but also caramelize two crème brûlées simultaneously. #TheForceAwakens pic.twitter.com/WoR3eeBNpa — Ryan McGee (@TVMcGee) November 28, 2014

Today my excitement level exceeds the limits of polite tweetability. — Rian Johnson (@rianjohnson) November 28, 2014

Still the fans urged caution. We'd been down this road before with Episode I.

Yes, yes. We'll all be excited until the scroll of SW VII begins: "There have been rumors of a cloture vote in the galactic legislature." — John Scalzi (@scalzi) November 28, 2014

Some were still complaining about the title.

There’s no such thing as “too cheesy for a Star Wars title.” THE CHEESE IS COMING FROM INSIDE THE HOUSE. #TheForceAwakens — Duncatrix (@clubjade) November 29, 2014

Star Wars made it to Saturday Night Live, and there was a fresh round of rumors about a Star Wars theme park.

Listen Disney, all I want is a to-scale Millennium Falcon in one of your parks. Round or rectangle radar dish, doesn't matter. — Brett Whitechristmas (@brettwhite) December 11, 2014

Lucasfilm revealed a few character names. Cue a new round of snark.

Harrison Ford: "Who are you supposed to be?" Adam Driver: "I'm playing Kylo Ren. Want to see my cool lightsaber? Ford: [Breaks own leg]. — Mike Ryan (@mikeryan) December 11, 2014

I'm glad that guy who got the BB-8 tattoo now knows what to call it. #theforceawakens — Jennifer Heddle (@jenheddle) December 11, 2014

The biggest day in December 2014? Not Christmas, but one-year-before-Force-Awakens day:

You're early, Force. Hit snooze till #TheForceAwakens! (That's not an AT-AT outside, but this is Hoth.) #TheForceAges pic.twitter.com/98c8BrQuhU — John Jackson Miller (@jjmfaraway) December 18, 2014

So, does anyone else have plans for this day next year? #TheForceAwakens pic.twitter.com/RHpJ5V3SdU — Star Wars (@starwars) December 18, 2014

2015

In January, during a rare interview for his animated movie Strange Magic (a box-office bomb and critical disaster), George Lucas revealed that Disney had rejected his original story for The Force Awakens. But he didn't seem too cut up about it.

Person who cares the least that Disney didn't use George Lucas' treatment for Episode VII: George Lucas. — Brian (@LaneWinree) January 20, 2015

Hasbro got into hot water for telling fans it didn't see the need for any more female action figures.

Harrison Ford walked away from the scene after crash-landing his plane on a Los Angeles golf course. Which, Twitter agreed, was the most Harrison Ford thing ever.

Of course Harrison Ford survived a plane crash. Have you not seen any of his films? — Derek Haas (@derekhaas) March 6, 2015

Lucasfilm announced the name of the first Star Wars spin-off movie, Rogue One — and its screenwriter asked a certain cosmic luminary for some science help on Twitter. (Sadly, they took the rest of the exchange to DM.)

@chrisweitz Happy to assist artistic creativity. Especially when the cosmos serves as the artist's muse. What's the question? — Neil deGrasse Tyson (@neiltyson) June 3, 2015

The first six Star Wars movies were finally released in digital form, announced with TV ads — but still we had our eyes on the seventh.

I saw the Lucasfilm logo pop up on TV and I got all excited because I thought they were about to show a Star Wars The Force Awakens trailer — Omar Akhter (@Omar_Akhter) April 7, 2015

Then came Star Wars Celebration — the greatest gathering in three years of Star Wars fandom. We got a brand new trailer, we saw the cast together, and BB-8 rolled out on stage for the first time.

Made this to sum up my reaction to the new #StarWars #TheForceAwakens teaser... pic.twitter.com/ycSuDfvlbW — Olly Gibbs (@ollyog) April 16, 2015

Very excited to see some familiar faces in the new #StarWars trailer! pic.twitter.com/oaoGgM6NQ2 — Jeff-o-Lantern (@usedwigs) April 16, 2015

Is ANYBODY cynical about the STAR WARS trailer? It's just that good, isn't it. — Fevin Daraci (@devincf) April 16, 2015

This is the kid from The Phantom Menace now. Feel old yet? pic.twitter.com/heQpC8GrkD — Neil McNeil (@Neil_McNeil) April 18, 2015

10 years ago, R2D2 hooked up with a gobstopper at the REVENGE OF THE SITH wrap party. Today, he's in for a shock. pic.twitter.com/MTI8PGYrps — Brian Lynch (@BrianLynch) April 23, 2015

May the 4th happened again.

I DON'T KNOW WHY WE NEED MAY THE FOURTH WHEN YOU NERDS TALK ABOUT STAR WARS EVERY GOD DAMN DAY — Jordan (@JordanApps) May 2, 2015

A Vanity Fair photoshoot revealed that Andy Serkis was playing a character called Supreme Leader Snoke. Fans immediately Googled the name.

Dear Star Wars this is the 1rst image you get if you google "Snoke." If the new bad guys are Germans who vape I am IN pic.twitter.com/pVNlkb4Bsz — kevinbiegel (@kbiegel) May 28, 2015

Lucasfilm announced that a forthcoming anthology movie would feature a young Han Solo. Fans were quick to speculate on what that meant.

At least 15 min of “Han Solo: The Prequel” will be a teacher lecturing on parsecs as a unit of distance while Han texts in the corner. — Daniel Fienberg (@TheFienPrint) July 7, 2015

San Diego Comic-Con saw an amazing Star Wars panel, a surprise Star Wars concert and fireworks show — and John Boyega and Daisy Ridley doing a live impromptu reenactment of the trailer.

NASA gave us close up images of Pluto — and even the man who demoted the dwarf planet couldn't resist making a Star Wars joke.

The latest Hi-Res image. I told everybody it wasn’t a planet, but nobody listened. (via @DavidBerthod) pic.twitter.com/3m5HNiKyGJ — Neil deGrasse Tyson (@neiltyson) August 20, 2015

The briefest of new scenes from The Force Awakens was released in widescreen on Instagram — and no one was more effusive than its star, John Boyega.

@JohnBoyega use this as your profile picture bro you're a freakin Jedi now!! pic.twitter.com/x9x9wFbMPK — Nabil Carrillo (@nabil6901) August 27, 2015

With publication of the novel Aftermath came Lucasfilm's first attempt to explain what had happened in the new timeline post-Return of the Jedi. It also featured an openly gay character. Predictably, some fans were upset.

Then came the shopping spectacular known as Force Friday, and a million nerds opened their wallets. But what were they buying?

Interesting note: On the Internet, BB-8 is king. At the store I went to? Nobody cared. It was all Kylo Ren hype. — H.P. Bencraft (@BenKuchera) September 4, 2015

We still saw Star Wars in everything.

The new Star Wars trailer should be like "Next week on Mad Men": Poe: What? Finn: You tell me. Rey: Well, well. Han: (picks up phone) — Anthony Breznican (@Breznican) October 7, 2015

And finally, there was one more trailer to watch — during Monday Night Football, of all places. And again, it blew us away.

People are literally tackling each other on a grass field just to see the new Star Wars trailer. This madness has to stop. — Matt Post (@MattPostSaysHi) October 20, 2015

Me right now pic.twitter.com/nyuPOTEAZz — Noah Outlaw (@OutlawNoah) October 20, 2015

me watching the new star wars trailer: pic.twitter.com/x81XiitLPL — brigitte (@empyreanriver) October 20, 2015

before you watch the star wars trailer / after pic.twitter.com/xeHzk6EkVp — Mariana (@dietredbull) October 20, 2015