'Darth Vader' Does 'Disneyland'

On the news of The Walt Disney Company agreeing to acquire Lucasfilm Ltd. from Chairman and Founder George Lucas in a stock-and-cash transaction, paving the way for a new trilogy of "Star Wars" feature films, Sneak Peek 'Darth Vader' and his 'Stormtroopers' taking in the sights at 'Disneyland' in a new promotional video.

Under the terms of the agreement and based on the closing price of Disney stock on Oct. 26, 2012, the transaction value is $4.05 billion, with Disney paying approximately half of the consideration in cash and issuing approximately 40 million shares at closing.

 

Kathleen Kennedy, current Co-Chairman of Lucasfilm, will become President of Lucasfilm, reporting to Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn, who will serve as the brand manager for "Star Wars".

Kennedy will serve as executive producer on new "Star Wars" feature films, with Lucas serving as creative consultant. "Star Wars Episode 7" is targeted for release in 2015, with more feature films expected to continue the "Star Wars" saga.

"For the past 35 years, one of my greatest pleasures has been to see 'Star Wars' passed from one generation to the next," Lucas said.

"It's now time for me to pass 'Star Wars' on to a new generation of filmmakers. I've always believed that 'Star Wars' could live beyond me, and I thought it was important to set up the transition during my lifetime."

"Lucasfilm reflects the extraordinary passion, vision, and storytelling of its founder, George Lucas," said Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of  The Walt Disney Company.

"This transaction combines a world-class portfolio of content including 'Star Wars', one of the greatest family entertainment franchises of all time, with Disney's unique and unparalleled creativity across multiple platforms, businesses, and markets to generate sustained growth and drive significant long-term value."

Click the images to enlarge and Sneak Peek 'Darth Vader' in Disneyland...