Mark Hamill Reveals Why George Lucas Wouldn't Kill Off Star Wars Characters

Mark Hamill Reveals George Lucas's 'Children's Film' Reason for Avoiding Star Wars Deaths NEW YORK, June 9, 2025 – Actor Mark Hamill, best known for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker, recently shared a humorous anecdote about the creative decisions behind the Star Wars franchise during an appearance on the TODAY Show. Hamill explained that George Lucas, the creator of Star Wars, was hesitant to kill off main characters because he viewed the films as being made for children. "It's for children," Hamill quoted Lucas as saying. This revelation offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind one of the most successful film franchises in history. Hamill's comments were made during a lighthearted interview segment, where he also contrasted Lucas's approach to character deaths with that of the newer Star Wars films. "In the new ones, they pop us off one at a time," Hamill quipped, eliciting laughter from the audience. His candid remarks provide a unique perspective on the evolution of the Star Wars saga. This anecdote highlights the delicate balance between maintaining a family-friendly image and creating dramatic tension in a beloved franchise. Hamill's humorous take on the matter adds a touch of levity to a topic that has often been the subject of serious debate among fans.