STAR WARS DAY 2026 is here! We always celebrate May the 4th here on Star Wars Escape Pod—boy, that is a lot of "Star Wars" for one sentence.

As usual, we’re diving into the latest news and headlines hitting the galaxy this week. Watto and Yogurt shouted "MERCHANDISING," and we came running with our annual Star Wars deals infomercial—you betcha it’s always a good time (and Phil absolutely loves this stuff).

Joining us is the fabulous crew you know and love. Leading our game tonight is our elusive and lovable co-host, Bryce, making his return to the podcast! He’s leading the gang through a narrative role-play set in the Disney boardrooms, where the group must pitch their own drafted movie ideas to Dave Filoni and George Lucas.

Little do they know, this is actually a pitch meeting and not a heist or action epic like our Episode #400 game show!

This week on the Star Wars Escape Pod, Josh and the crew are diving into a double-feature "Aftershow" for the latest action-packed chapters of Maul Shadow Lord! From Chapter 7: Call to Oblivion, where Maul faces off against the 11th Brother while dealing with a glitchy mechanical leg, to Chapter 8: The Creeping Fear, featuring high-octane speeder chases and dark visions of Darth Sidious, this episode covers it all. The team breaks down everything from the "Attack of the Clones" vibes during the chase scenes to the tragic backstory of Maul and Savage Oppress on Dathomir. Plus, they discuss some last-minute news about Star Wars Celebration 2027 and the major era changes happening over at Galaxy’s Edge. Strap into your escape pod—it’s going to be a wild ride through the galaxy!

Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!

Orbitkey Disney Collection Add a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry. The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic. https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw

———————————————————————— Star Wars Escape Pod

🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca 🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast 🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social 📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast 📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com 🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml

Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad? https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad

https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5

Strap in for a lively after-show, but before diving into the deep end, the guys swap some major Star Wars news, specifically dishing on the 50th-anniversary Celebration coming to LA in 2027—including some pretty funny sticker-shock over those VIP tickets and some more star wars news! We have Maul episode 6&7 on the menu tonight, with the Empire locking down a city to the "power partner" potential between Jedi survivors Dackey and Devon - these episodes are packed! A well-executed train action sequence has us very keen. Between the personal ratings, some hilarious banter about Anakin's lost diary and a chat about Star Wars books, it’s a classic hangout session for anyone who loves the galaxy far, far away.

Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!

Orbitkey Disney Collection Add a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry. The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic. https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw

———————————————————————— Star Wars Escape Pod

🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca 🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast 🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social 📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast 📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com 🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml

Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad? https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad

https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5

In this episode of the Star Wars Escape Pod, the crew dives into the shadow-filled world of Maul: Shadow Lord as we recap the latest two chapters, "Whispers in the Unknown" and "Pride and Vengeance". Join us break down the psychological mind games between a seasoned, wiser Maul and the runaway Padawan, Devon, including a tense tea ceremony that proves the former Sith apprentice has traded some of his animalistic rage for refined manipulation.

But before we chat about our favorite Zabrak, take a listen to the emotional new trailer for The Mandalorian and Grogu, Embo’s iconic hat to Clone Wars-era AT-RTs included. Plus, a special announcement from Darian regarding the rebranding of the Bucketheads crew into the Twin Suns Foundation and their upcoming short film, Dead Echo. Strap into your escape pods—it’s going to be a wild ride! STAR WARS CELEBRATION TICKET NEWS https://www.starwarscelebration.com/en-us/tickets-merch/ticket-information.html Check out Twin Sun Film Foundation! https://twinsunfilm.org/

Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!

Orbitkey Disney Collection Add a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry. The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic. https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw

———————————————————————— Star Wars Escape Pod

🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca 🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast 🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social 📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast 📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com 🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml

Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad? https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad

https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5

This week, we launch a brand-new Aftershow dedicated to the thrilling animated successor to The Clone Wars and the ongoing saga of Maul: Shadow Lord! We’re breaking down the first two episodes of Season 1, diving deep into the dark world of Janix and the standout characters that caught our eye.

Plus, we’re serving up a hot cup of Star Wars news: is Lucasfilm really sidelining Mara Jade? We discuss what those rumors could mean for the future. Finally, we open another mysterious chapter from Anakin’s lost diary.

Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!

Orbitkey Disney Collection Add a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry. The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic. https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw

———————————————————————— Star Wars Escape Pod

🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca 🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast 🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social 📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast 📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com 🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml

Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad? https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad

https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5

Join the crew of the Star Wars Escape Pod as they reach an epic conclusion of the "Bogan’s Advocate" series. In this final installment covering the Skywalker Saga, the hosts and special guest Dr. Steve Ellerhoff take on the challenge of debating the franchise's most divisive entry: The Rise of Skywalker.

Following the unique "Bogan's Advocate" format, the participants must argue against their own personal opinions. For those who disliked the film’s creative choices—such as the controversial return of Emperor Palpatine—the mission is to find the light side and celebrate the movie's strengths. Conversely, those who enjoyed the film must dig deep to find its flaws...

Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!

Orbitkey Disney Collection Add a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry. The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic. https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw

———————————————————————— Star Wars Escape Pod

🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca 🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast 🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social 📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast 📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com 🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml

Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad? https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad

https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5

Prepare for a chat about the most polarizing chapter of the sequel trilogy with the Star Wars Escape Pod’s "Bogan’s Advocate" session for The Last Jedi. In this episode, the crew tackles the subversion of expectations head-on, from the startling introduction of a disillusioned Luke Skywalker to the "no-twist" revelation of Rey’s parentage. While the crew marvels at the film's top-tier cinematography and striking use of red in the Snoke's throne room duel, they don't hold back on the pacing issues of some Canto Bight events or the introduction of new Force powers. It’s a balanced, high-energy discussion that explores whether Rian Johnson’s creative risks paid off or pushed the franchise too far off the predictable path. Don't forget about the ending of our podcast as we close out with the wacky wildest chapter of Anakins lost diary we've ever seen!

Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!

Orbitkey Disney Collection Add a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry. The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic. https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw

———————————————————————— Star Wars Escape Pod

🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca 🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast 🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social 📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast 📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com 🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml

Folding At Home Team: ID: 1066882

Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad? https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad

https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5

Step into the Star Wars Escape Pod for a spirited, "Bogan’s Advocate" debate where fans take on the ultimate challenge: defending the parts of the Skywalker Saga they actually dislike. In this episode, the crew dives into The Force Awakens, grappling with whether it’s a brilliant, beautiful continuation of the franchise or a nostalgic "reboot" that plays it too safe. From praising Adam Driver’s intense performance as Ben Solo to critiquing the lightning-fast character shifts of Finn, no stone in the Jakku desert is left unturned... If there was any stones to begin with. It’s a hilarious and insightful mix of high-praise cinematography talk and honest fan frustration, perfect for anyone who has ever felt "empty inside" after a premiere—or just really loves a good Millennium Falcon skid. Don't forget to wait to the end for our next chapter of Anakins lost diary!

Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!

Orbitkey Disney Collection Add a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry. The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic. https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw

———————————————————————— Star Wars Escape Pod

🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca 🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast 🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social 📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast 📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com 🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml

Folding At Home Team: ID: 1066882

Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad? https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad

https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5