Mark Hamill, renowned for his role as Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars franchise, made a surprise appearance in the White House briefing room after meeting with President Joe Biden. Hamill, a vocal supporter of Biden, sported the president’s trademark aviator sunglasses during his appearance.
Recalling his meeting with Biden, Hamill humorously shared, “I called him ‘Mr President,’ he said ‘You can call me Joe.’ And I said, ‘Can I call you Joe-bi Wan Kenobi?’ He liked that.” This playful reference was to the Star Wars character Obi-Wan Kenobi, who mentors Skywalker in the film series.
Hamill praised Biden as “the most legislatively successful president in my lifetime” and mentioned that the president had shown him photos during their meeting in the Oval Office.
During his brief appearance, Hamill took a few questions from reporters, jokingly requesting, “no Star Wars questions please.” He expressed that visiting the White House under Democratic presidents Jimmy Carter and Barack Obama was special, but this visit was “extra special.”
The timing of Hamill’s visit was notable, as it coincided with the upcoming “May the Fourth” day, a celebration among Star Wars fans. This day plays on the franchise’s catchphrase “May the Force be with you.”
Typically, the White House invites guests to press briefings to support various causes or policies. Previously, South Korean K-pop group BTS visited to highlight anti-Asian racism, and actor Matthew McConaughey addressed “gun responsibility” following a tragedy in Texas.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre noted that Hamill is “someone who is… very much invested in the direction of this country.”