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Axios
04-05-2025
- Politics
- Axios
A disturbance in the force: White House's Star Wars Day post raises eyebrows
The White House may say President Trump represents a new hope — but Star Wars fans quickly pointed out that part of the White House's social media post celebrating Star Wars Day feels a little more Sith-style. The big picture: The meme-heavy, provocative communications from White House pages, coupled with a new Drudge Report-style site for pro-Trump stories and the president's own social media stunts, have displayed a sharp shift in the official communications of the United States government. Driving the news: The White House shared what appears to be an AI-generated image of Trump, with heavily muscled and veiny arms, flanked by two bald eagles, wielding a lightsaber to celebrate Star Wars Day, celebrated on May the 4th. "Happy May the 4th to all, including the Radical Left Lunatics who are fighting so hard to bring Sith Lords, Murderers, Drug Lords, Dangerous Prisoners, & well known MS-13 Gang Members, back into our Galaxy. You're not the Rebellion—you're the Empire," the post read. One issue: Trump's lightsaber in the image is red. A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, lightsaber colors suggested who could be trusted — and who had fallen to the dark side of the Force. In filmmaker George Lucas' words, "Good guys are green and blue. Bad guys are red." Darth Vader, Darth Maul and Kylo Ren all used red sabers. Anakin (pre-Dark Side) and Luke Skywalker carried blue and green ones, respectively. Jedi Master Mace Windu did carry a coveted purple weapon, but among the most common colors — blue, green and red — even casual fans can recognize a trend. Friction point: The White House's post left users battling for the high ground in the comments. Some argued the Republican color is red. Therefore, red lightsaber. Others insisted the lightsaber in the photo is orange. There are plenty of other colors a Jedi's saber could be other than the Democrats' favored blue — like green, purple, or even yellow. Whether the decision was intentional or if AI chose the saber's color remains unknown. Yes, but: The Department of Defense's Rapid Response account, however, depicted Trump gripping a green lightsaber while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth carried a blue one. Zoom out: This was the second time in three days that the White House shared an AI-generated image of Trump that stoked controversy. On Friday, the official White House account reposted an image that Trump shared to his Truth Social depicting him in papal vestments after telling reporters earlier in the week he'd "like to be pope" following the death of Pope Francis. The bottom line: A seemingly silly debate underscores a broader conversation about the, at times, jarring departure from traditional White House communications and the sharing of AI-generated images.
Yahoo
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
May the 4th be with you. Celebrate Star Wars Day in Michigan
May 4 is always a special day for fans of Star Wars and that's why on Sunday you will likely hear someone utter "May the 4th be with you." The phrase comes from a line of dialogue in the 1977 film, "Star Wars," which gained the expanded title "Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope" as George Lucas' space opera saga expanded over the decades. In the film, before the rebel fighters begin their assault on the Death Star, General Dodonna encourages them with the command: "Then man your ships! And may the Force be with you!" "May the Force be with you" is a saying that, excuse the pun, flows through the Star Wars movies, TV series, books and comics. It's a saying used by Jedi Knights such as Obi-Wan Kenobi referencing the Force, a form of energy connecting the galaxy, which some Force-sensitive individuals can tap into and enhance their abilities. Saying, "May the Force be with you," is akin to wishing someone "Good Luck." The Force is a mysterious energy that flows through all things and imbues the Jedi knights (the good guys) and the Sith (the bad guys) with their power to move objects, block laser blasts and influence those with weak minds. The origins of the saying "May the 4th be with you," may be surprising. While it was used in headlines for July 4 back to 1978, according to the first reported official use of the phrase came in May 1979, when Margaret Thatcher became the U.K.'s prime minister. To celebrate, the U.K. Conservative Party paid for a newspaper advertisement saying, 'May the Fourth Be With You, Maggie. Congratulations!' wrote Steve Sansweet on in 2013. Over the years as the Star Wars universe grew with 1980's "The Empire Strikes Back" through the prequel films and subsequent sequel trilogy, which included 2015's "The Force Awakens," the "May the 4th be with you" phenomenon grew into an unofficial "Star Wars Day" holiday with fans holding "Star Wars Day" parties or watching the movies in observance of the day. The easiest way to celebrate is to stream some of the movies, all 11 of which are available on Disney+ (Disney acquired Lucasfilm in 2012). Also on the streaming service is Season Two of "Andor," a series that is set before the events of 2016 film "Rogue One," which leads up to "Star Wars: A New Hope." The first six episodes of the series are available; six more are scheduled. If you prefer to get out and mingle with other Star Wars fans, you're in luck. Space Dive, 715 E. Milwaukee St. in Detroit, a two-weekend entertainment event, kicked off May 2 and continues through May 4, and then again May 9-10. "The best dive bar in the galaxy. Immersive cantina. Costumes mandatory," the event's Facebook page announces. The "event"ultimate immersive cantina" says costumes can be both elaborate and simple."You are your own character in a dive bar in a galaxy far, far away," the website says. "That could mean aliens or creatures of all species and sorts — smugglers, pilots, gangsters, bounty hunters, criminals, etc. Think vests, khaki jackets, ponchos, capes, straps, goggles, etc. A lot of looks you'd see in a Western would work. Wasteland gear works. Playa gear is perfect, and so on. A dash of face paint, an alien hair style. Earth-toned desert garb is simple, and a little goes a long way..." Tickets for 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. (21-plus) event on May 4, 9 and 10 start at $52.50 and are available online. Family Day is from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 10. "Kids are FREE, adults are only $10! Entry is paid at the gate the day of the event," the event says. Not ready to hang out with galactic smugglers, thieves and rebel scum? The Grand Rapids Symphony is performing the music of Star Wars on May 4. Watch the fourth episode in the Star Wars saga and hear the Grand Rapids Symphony perform John Williams' Oscar-winning score. Set 30 years after "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace," "Star Wars: A New Hope" returns to the desert planet of Tatooine in the fourth episode of the saga. The symphony performs at 2 p.m. May 4 at Van Andel Arena. Tickets are available online, starting at $29. Interested in becoming a stormtrooper? The Great Lakes Garrison's 501st Legion is appearing at a number of events in southeast Michigan on May 4. Events listed on the garrison website include a visit to the Clarkson library, the Farmington crop walk, the Care Walk in Grand Rapids, Petoskey District Library Star Wars Day event, Michigan Panthers Star Wars Night, and a screening of "A New Hope" in Grand Rapids dubbed into Ojibwe. This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: May the 4th be with you. Michigan Star Wars Day events: music, costumes, stormtroopers
Yahoo
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
When is Star Wars Day? Here's why May 4th became the sci-fi franchise's unofficial holiday
Grab your lightsabers — May the 4th is here. For "Star Wars" fans, May 4 is a day of celebration. You'll likely hear someone say, 'May the 4th be with you,' a playful twist on one of the franchise's most iconic lines. The saying comes from a line of dialogue in the 1977 film, "Star Wars," which gained the expanded title "Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope" as George Lucas' space opera saga expanded over the decades. In the film, before the rebel fighters begin their assault on the Death Star, General Dodonna encourages them with the command: "Then man your ships! And may the Force be with you!" "May the Force be with you" is a saying that, excuse the pun, flows through the "Star Wars" movies, TV series, books and comics. It's a saying used by Jedi Knights such as Obi-Wan Kenobi referencing the Force, a form of energy connecting the galaxy, which some Force-sensitive individuals can tap into and enhance their abilities. Saying, "May the Force be with you," is akin to wishing someone "Good Luck." In total, the phrase, "May the Force" has been said 24 times in the "Star Wars" live action films, according to Yahoo Entertainment. The origins of the saying "May the 4th be with you" may be surprising. While it was used in headlines for July 4 back to 1978, according to the first reported official use of the phrase came in May 1979, when Margaret Thatcher became the U.K.'s prime minister. To celebrate, the U.K. Conservative Party paid for a newspaper advertisement saying, 'May the Fourth Be With You, Maggie. Congratulations!' wrote Steve Sansweet on Since then, the phrase has grown into a full-fledged fan celebration, with May 4 becoming the unofficial holiday of the "Star Wars" franchise. Sometimes also known as Geek Pride Day, May 25 is known as "Star Wars Day" because it marks the release of the anniversary of the series' debut. "A New Hope" premiered in United States theaters on May 25, 1997. In 2007, the Los Angeles City Council declared May 25 as Star Wars Day in honor of the 30th anniversary. "DECLARE May 25, 2007 as Star Wars Day in the City of Los Angeles and also recognize George Lucas' 1977 film Star Wars for its tremendous impact on the citizenry of Los Angeles, the film industry and the world, and for continuing to inspire after thirty years millions of people to explore movies, fantasy, literature, and science as means of achieving their goals and dreams," the city council resolution stated. May 21 is Talk Like Yoda Day, an annual celebration marking the release of "Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back" on May 21, 1980 — the film that introduced Yoda to the galaxy. Fans honor the day by mimicking Yoda's unique speech style — rearranging sentence structure and using his iconic phrases like 'Yes' and 'Hmm.' Here are some examples. Regular English: "I really enjoy watching 'Star Wars' with my friends." Yoda-speak: "Enjoy watching 'Star Wars' with my friends, I do." Regular English: "Spring storms in Texas can be intense." Yoda-speak: "Intense, spring storms in Texas can be." Regular English: "Audrey Hepburn was born on May 4, 1929." Yoda-speak: "Born on May 4, 1929, Audrey Hepburn was." The easiest way to celebrate is to stream some of the movies, all 11 of which are available on Disney+ (Disney acquired Lucasfilm in 2012). Also on the streaming service is season two of "Andor," a series that is set before the events of 2016 film "Rogue One," which leads up to "Star Wars: A New Hope." The first six episodes of the series are available; six more are scheduled. Many restaurants, movie theaters, toy stores, and other businesses hold Star Wars Day events, too. Sports venues often have "Star Wars" celebrations around May 4. Check social media for #Maythe4th. You can also shop the Disney Store's May the 4th Be With You 2025 Collection, which includes T-shirts, pins, hats, and more. There's also special "Star Wars" products on and merchandise from Star Wars Celebration Japan on If you are also a fan of Fortnite, you can get a head start on the upcoming "Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld," a six-episode animated series. It hits Disney+ on May 4, but you can see the first two episodes May 2 inside the video game. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: May 4th or 25th: When is Star Wars Day? Here's why they're celebrated
What's On
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
May the 4th Be With You: 4 cool ways to celebrate Star Wars this weekend
May the Force be with you… Star Wars fans in Dubai, this one's for you. May 4th is considered a pretty important day for Star Wars enthusiasts for, well… hopefully obvious reasons. But for those of you who don't get it… May the 4th be with you kinda sounds like ' May the Force be with you ,' – a very important line from the original 1977 movie that launched George Lucas' space opera. You may already have added some of our suggestions from things to do in Dubai this week to your list, but slot some time in to do these cool Star Wars-related activities. Here are 4 cool ways to celebrate Star Wars this weekend Events Star Wars X Lego The Lego Certified Stores is hosting what it calls 'the biggest event in the galaxy' at Mall of the Emirates on Sunday, May 4. All Lego and Star Wars fans in Dubai are encouraged to come dressed in their favourite Star Wars character and join in on the celebrations. We can expect an exclusive reveal where you will be one of the first to witness an exclusive 2025 edition LEGO Star Wars set with a limited edition collectible gift. Other activities include intergalactic competitions (involving LEGO, duh) where you can win some pretty cool prizes. The event begins at 10am. If you love Lego as much as we do, take note that any purchases made on May 4 will be delivered for free. RSVP here. Lego Certified Store, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, May 4, 10am to 12pm. @legostoresme Comicave at Dubai Outlet Mall Above: Unsplash Pop culture enthusiasts, make a beeline to the Dubai Outlet Mall Dome Area on May 3 and 4 for two days of comics, gaming, and galactic adventures. The event is free to attend and promises plenty of entertainment. You will also be treated to free comic book giveaways (think exclusive titles and collector's editions as part of the global Free Comic Book Day initiative). International comic artists from major publishing houses including Marvel and DC Comics will also be present for meet-and-greet sessions, live signings, and art demonstrations. And on May 4, there will be Star Wars cosplay encounters, where attendees can meet and snap photos with professional cosplayers portraying iconic heroes and villains from a galaxy far, far away. There will also be Star Wars themed board games, card games and more. Visit or @ComicaveUAE to find out more Road trip We always knew the force is strong with Abu Dhabi, but did you know the planet of Jakku – where we first meet Rey (Daisy Ridley), the central protagonist of the final Star Wars Trilogy – is actually Abu Dhabi? Or at least that's where those scenes were filmed. Abu Dhabi actually gets a name check in the movie too; during a conversation with companion Finn (John Boyega), Rey refers to a location called 'Liwa Outpost.' Speaking on the location, director JJ Abrams stated, 'Filming in Abu Dhabi was an incredible thing. Star Wars is a Western and a fairy tale, and shooting in Abu Dhabi was just that!' So if you want to celebrate Star Wars, round up your mates and make a road trip out to the Liwa / Rub' al Khali desert. Watch the films series on Disney+ If you want to fall in love with the Star Wars series all over again, cancel all your plans, order in junk food, lock your doors and silence your phone, and watch the entire film series. It is available on Disney+ for your binge-watching pleasure. The main canon of the franchise currently stands at twelve films, and while you may be tempted to just switch to your favourite from the list to start your marathon off, consider switching things up a bit. Online you will find different ways to watch the series, meaning you don't have to watch it in the way they were produced. This being said though, many would argue that it was this precise sequence that made millions of people fall in love with the saga. However, do what you think is best. All that matters is that you have a grand time. We shall leave you with a joke (which we stole from the interwebs…) regarding this… Why did Episodes 4, 5, and 6 come before 1, 2 and 3? Because in charge of directing, Yoda was. Images: Unsplash > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Star Wars Day 2025: Why we say, 'May the 4th be with you' on unofficial holiday
May 4 is always a special day for fans of Star Wars and that's why on Sunday you will likely hear someone utter "May the 4th be with you." The saying comes from a line of dialogue in the 1977 film, "Star Wars," which gained the expanded title "Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope" as George Lucas' space opera saga expanded over the decades. In the film, before the rebel fighters begin their assault on the Death Star, General Dodonna encourages them with the command: "Then man your ships! And may the Force be with you!" "May the Force be with you" is a saying that, excuse the pun, flows through the Star Wars movies, TV series, books and comics. It's a saying used by Jedi Knights such as Obi-Wan Kenobi referencing the Force, a form of energy connecting the galaxy, which some Force-sensitive individuals can tap into and enhance their abilities. Saying, "May the Force be with you," is akin to wishing someone "Good Luck." The origins of the saying "May the 4th be with you," may be surprising. While it was used in headlines for July 4 back to 1978, according to the first reported official use of the phrase came in May 1979, when Margaret Thatcher became the U.K.'s prime minister. To celebrate, the U.K. Conservative Party paid for a newspaper advertisement saying, 'May the Fourth Be With You, Maggie. Congratulations!' wrote Steve Sansweet on in 2013. Over the years as the Star Wars universe grew with 1980's "The Empire Strikes Back" through the prequel films and subsequent sequel trilogy, which included 2015's "The Force Awakens," the "May the 4th be with you" phenomenon grew into an unofficial "Star Wars Day" holiday with fans holding "Star Wars Day" parties or watching the movies in observance of the day. At the recent Star Wars Celebration Japan event, it was announced that an event to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the initial movie's debut will be held in Los Angeles in 2027. More 'Star Wars' to come: Ryan Gosling to star in new 'Star Wars: Starfighter' movie: What we know so far The easiest way to celebrate is to stream some of the movies, all 11 of which are available on Disney+ (Disney acquired Lucasfilm in 2012). Also on the streaming service is Season Two of "Andor," a series that is set before the events of 2016 film "Rogue One," which leads up to "Star Wars: A New Hope." The first six episodes of the series are available; six more are scheduled. Many restaurants, movie theaters, toy stores, and other businesses hold Star Wars Day events, too. Sports venues often have Star Wars celebrations around May 4. Check social media for #Maythe4th. You can also shop the Disney Store's May the 4th Be With You 2025 Collection, which includes T-shirts, pins, hats, and more. There's also special Star Wars products on and merchandise from Star Wars Celebration Japan on If you are also a fan of Fortnite, you can get a head start on the upcoming "Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld," a six-episode animated series. It hits Disney+ on May 4, but you can see the first two episodes May 2 inside the video game. Mike Snider is a reporter on USA TODAY's Trending team. You can follow him on Threads, Bluesky, X and email him at mikegsnider & @ & @mikesnider & msnider@ What's everyone talking about? Sign up for our trending newsletter to get the latest news of the day This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: May the 4th be with you: How 'Star Wars' Day started, what it means
