Mock-Up Chewbacca Action Figure

This confidential internal Kenner photo shows what is almost certainly the first three-dimensional representation of a Chewbacca action figure.

This photograph, along with twelve others from this collection, is dated May 10th, 1977, a mere 15 days before A New Hope hit theaters. It is likely this figure was created shortly before that. Considering that it takes a toy company approximately 12-18 months to get a toy from concept to store shelf, we can see how truly behind Kenner was in bringing Star Wars toys to the market.

This Chewbacca was modified, or mocked-up, from the Bionic Bigfoot figure included with the TTP Dual Launch Drag Set from the Six Million Dollar Man line. It is unclear if his gun is handmade or based on some other toy.

The Star Wars Collectors Archive is proud to ring in 2006 with these never-before-seen photos. Who could have imagined what these few prototype toys would eventually lead to 29 years later. Indeed, these prototypes would form the basis for many kids' childhoods, created a legion of collectors, and revolutionized the toy industry itself.

The other photographs from this collection are of:

Description by: Isaac Lew
Photo: Isaac Lew
From the collection of: Anonymous
Country:United States
Film:A New Hope
Licensee:Kenner
Year:1977
Category:Prototypes / Product Concepts


  


Checklist by Duncan Jenkins, Gus Lopez, and the Star Wars collecting community
Software by Chris Nichols

All information © 2014 Star Wars Collectors Archive