Disney Parks Boss Shows Off “Real” Lightsaber Onstage At SXSW

deadline.com:

Disney Parks and Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro gave a presentation at SXSW this weekend that promised a focus on “The Art & Science of Disney Parks Storytelling,” and boy did he deliver.

After showing off a very dynamic character robot and offering a look at Smart Hulk in his time travel suit, D’Amaro offered up what he termed “the true wow moment.” D’Amaro brandished a legit-looking lightsaber hilt.

He pushed a button and, “beeshheww,” a very real-looking blue lightsaber blade seemed to spring out of the hilt in his hand. “I have the coolest job in the world,” announced D’Amaro. “I’m holding a real lightsaber.” Video posted online captured the moment and the audience’s collective gasp followed by applause.

D’Amaro explained he was holding one of the lightsabers used onboard Disney’s ultra-expensive Galactic Starcruiser experience, but video of those lightsabers shows they have a tube sticking out of the hilt, which is not retractible.