Kenner Star Wars action figures

The Kenner toy company produced a line of "Star Wars" action figures based on prominent characters in the original "Star Wars" movie trilogy. Over 90 unique action figures were produced and sold from 1977 to 1985.

These plastic action figures were usually smaller than four inches and typically moved at five points on their bodies, but there were many differences and unique qualities in the individual figures that departed from these norms. Kenner's "Star Wars" action figures were produced along with vehicles and playsets based on the "Star Wars" movies. The action figures were typically sold in clear plastic packaging attached to product cards. The backs of the cards usually promoted (and sometimes enumerated) all available action figures, upcoming figures and related products. "12-back" cards promoted a line of 12 action figures, "20-back" cards promoted a line of 20 action figures, etc.

The toy line was reintroduced in 1997 to tie in with the release of the Special Editions of the original trilogy. Kenner was absorbed into Hasbro shortly afterwards.

Although Hasbro continues to produce a variety of toys relating to all six Star Wars films, the original Kenner toys are the most sought-after by collectors.

Table of Kenner "Star Wars" action figures

The table below takes information as given on the cards with which each action figure debuted. After the debut of an action figure, details in the packaging, in the shape of the action figure and the name of the action figure were subject to change. No one characteristic (name, shape or product number) completely defines the list, rather all the characteristics taken together form a clear list.

Note that there are 96 action figures listed below, though the final card-back promoted a full line of 93 action figures. This is because when Kenner produced new versions (with new, unique product numbers) of R2-D2 and C-3PO action figures, they discontinued previous versions. Two versions of R2-D2 were discontinued. One version of C-3PO was discontinued.

Also note that the identical name "Bespin Security Guard" is given to two action figures. The first figure (No. 39810) is white, the second figure (No. 69640) is black. On card-backs the two Bespin Security Guards are shown separately, but still labeled with the same name.

In popular culture

In the 1982 film "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial", "Star Wars" action figures are included in a scene in which Elliot is introducing E.T. to objects in his everyday life. The scene begins with Coca-Cola and extends to fish, PEZ candy, a peanut, money and a car:

Elliot: "Coke. You see, we drink it. It's a, it's a drink. You know, food. These are toys. These are little men. (Elliot shows E.T. several Star Wars action figures) This is Greedo, and then this is Hammerhead. See, this is Walrus Man, and this is Snaggletooth and this is Boba Fett. See... and look, they can even have wars. Look at this. (Elliot has the action figures shoot each other.) Look, fish..."