Lucasfilm Responds to Admiral Ackbar College Mascot Campaign

“It’s a trap!” Or is it?

Last week, students at the University of Mississippi voted on a new mascot to replace Colonel Reb, a borderline offensive caricature of an old Southern gentlemen. The early winner? Admiral Ackbar from Return of the Jedi. Students have rallied behind the Mon Calamari Rebel Alliance leader, launching websites such as notatrap.org, which asks, “Who wants a Colonel when you can have an Admiral?”

Clearly appreciating this humor in this situation, Lucasfilm issued a tongue-in-cheek statement on the matter to The New York Times. “Lucasfilm is flattered that our Star Wars fans at the University of Mississippi are considering electing Admiral Ackbar as their mascot,” the studio said. “The last time we checked in with Admiral Ackbar he was leading the Rebel Alliance Fleet on a critical mission so it will be difficult for him to show up for the games!”

And it seems some hardcore Ole Miss fans and discontented students would prefer it that way. TMZ reports that angry students have threatened to transfer if Ackbar becomes the new mascot. Angry parents have even vowed to “never send their kids to Ole Miss” if the character wins. They must be Trekkies.

Our Defense Can’t Repel Outside Runs of That Magnitude!

The Force is apparently strong with the University of Mississippi.

I read on Topless Robot earlier today that Ole Miss is in search of a new mascot after retiring longtime Rebels mascot Colonel Reb in 2006. On February 23, the school turned to the student body to vote on a replacement. The current favorite? Admiral Ackbar, the Mon Calamari leader of the Rebel Alliance fleet who led the assault against the second Death Star in Return of the Jedi.

I can’t help but crack a smile at the thought of collegiate football players being forced to wear uniforms emblazoned with a Star Wars character. And, indeed, having Admiral Ackbar march up and down the sidelines at a bowl game would definitely count as a major geek victory in our eternal struggle against the jocks. But, ultimately, it all comes down to whether or not Ole Miss would be able to work out a deal with Lucasfilm to use the character. I’m no economist, but I’m guessing it wouldn’t be cheap.

Still, it would be all kinds of awesome if we could one day witness packed stadiums chanting “it’s a trap!” in anticipation of a blitz. Make it happen, Rebel Nation.