Here's basically where I cover a variety of topics, usually presented to me by my Sith Sisters on the DM Mailing list. I also cover some rumors I've been made aware of and the like. The topic is in bold print. None of the rumors have been officialized so please don't take my word for it. I'm in no way affiliated with Lucasfilms.
Lately, there's been a lot of buzz surrounding the death of Maul and the possibility of his return in the second episode. Sadly, from what I can gather I don't think this is possible, even with the Clone Wars coming. If Lucas was do bring him back it might cause problems with the layout of the story. I adore Maul, truly I do, and would love to see him in action once more, but facts are facts and frankly, this isn't our battlefield. Someone had to get rid of Qui-Gon in order for Obi-Wan to teach Anakin, thus resulting in the later episodes' events. Maul was the one Lucas created to do just that. His work done, his character was cut down in the prime of his apprenticship to allow the rest of the story to continue. But we would love to have Maul come back at least in memory. After all, the Jedi Council still doesn't know which one was killed.
I'm not going to bash either the Maul fans or the Ray Park fans since I'm a fan of both. I'm merely going to express myself here. About a week ago, one of my Sisters reported trouble going on in the Ray Park mailing list. Apparently they had believed us to be obsessive freaks that were prime examples of future stalkers. That is not true. The very fact we like the fiction more makes us a little more sane than they are. To profess admiration, of this extreme, about the man behind the mask (so to speak), isn't always a healthy idea. Now I admit Ray is a very nice-looking, pleasant, and easy-going fella but you don't see me gushing about him more than I do Maul. Maul is the fantasy symbol for female SW fans as was Vader and Han Solo. To make a long rant short, let's remember the fact when we think of the fiction and vice-versa. In the words of a wise Sister "You can't have one without the other.".
I have to stick my two cents in here before I burst. After reading the recalled events that occurred at the Star Wars Celebration, I have to say Ray was all for meeting with his newfound fans and speaking with them. He was enthusiastic and energetic about the whole thing. Not a great deal of actors today will stick their necks out for their fans' benefit or the crowd's. For obvious reason of course; you never know what freaks might be out there. I speak of possible stalkers. But many SW fans go to these events for the sheer joy of meeting the actors who portrayed the characters they've loved for years and the new ones that have wormed their ways into their hearts. Ray, perhaps because this new for him and he wants to experience it all, seems to exude the kind of trust other actors keep to themselves. He seems to understand that these people love the character and respect the talent of the actor who brought them to life on the screen. If I could interview Ray I would. Unfortunately, I have no rights or connections to do this. But if I could, I definately would; he's a very good example for future actors and the sweetest person I've yet to encounter. And I've met a lot of people in my short lifespan.
So.I leave with this: If I could create an award for the sweetest person in the universe, Ray would be the first person on my pick list. And that's not just because he was Maul; it's because he deserves it.
I'm sure I'm not the only person around here who's, frankly, sick of all of these outrageous rumors. I hate rumors, always have. Things said to rile up the public has never sat well with me. I feel sorrow for those at Lucasfilms and those involved in these productions; they have to face the brunt of these silly rumors, always being questioned, grilled, and just plain annoyed by these stupid things. I admire their patience as well; had it been me I would've cut off any connection with anyone outside of my production crew and cast and let the stupid public wait for the final result. But that's me.
Reading these rumors have made me hold my head and groan in exasperation, sometimes even making me roll my eyes and wonder what half of the world is smoking. Qui-Gon is Anakin's father...no I don't THINK so! Palpatine being Anakin's father...nope, try again. Lucas, even though I don't know him on a personal level, isn't some melodramatic soap opera playwright. Connections that screwy are reserved for the stupid primetime TV shows that keep on having spin-offs, not major-motion films. He's covered the father thing already, people! Just accept the facts from the real source, Star Wars.Com, and stop believing these outrageous lies!
Have a topic you'd like to see me cover? How about one you'd like me to post here? Feel free to mail me with your suggestion. Thanks!