Hayden Christensen lights up the Empire State Building as part of 'Star Wars' takeover

getty_hayden_christiansen_esb_03212024149346
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Empire State Realty Trust

On Thursday morning, Star Wars prequel star Hayden Christensen was on hand to kick off a Star Wars takeover of New York City’s famed Empire State Building.

Christensen, who recently appeared in the Disney+ series Star Wars: Ahsoka, was joined by his alter-ego, Darth Vader, and a squad of Stormtroopers for the launch of the building’s March to May the 4th campaign.

Hayden then flipped an oversized ceremonial switch to turn the top of the building’s lights Sith red and officially started the festivities.

Before he did, Christensen told the assembled media he was honored to represent the franchise, adding, “Star Wars has been a very important part of my life, so it’s a real pleasure to get to be here and see this amazing show they’re about to put on.”

The landmark will feature life-sized LEGO statues of Star Wars characters and immersive environments from George Lucas‘ saga as well as product launches and other events in the lead-up to May 4, which is Star Wars Day.

Thursday evening will feature a “villain-themed light show,” and on Friday evening, ESB will host ESB: That is, Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back in fan speak.

Star Wars is owned by Lucasfilm, a division of Disney, ABC News’ parent company.

Copyright © 2024, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.

3-sisters-2025

Snowflake Boutique

The 49th Snowflake Boutique will be Friday, November 7th 1:00pm -8:00pm and Saturday, November 8th 9:00am – 5:00pm at the Deschutes County Fair and Expo Center in the South Sisters Building. Admission is $4.00 per person, children

static_digital_840x400_thomasrhett_2025_regional_cascadesamphitheater_0926

Thomas Rhett at Cascades Amphitheater

Get ready for an unforgettable night of country music as Thomas Rhett brings his Better In Boots Tour  to the Cascades Amphitheater in Ridgefield, WA, on Friday, September 26, at 7:30 PM. Join us for an evening

static_digital-venueemail_735x385_linkinpark_2025_regional_modacenter_0919

Linkin Park with JPEGMAFIA Live at Moda Center

Get ready for an electrifying night of music as Linkin Park and JPEGMAFIA take the stage at the Moda Center! This is a once-in-a-lifetime to experience the legendary rock anthems of Linkin Park, whose powerful performances have