A Galaxy Far, Far Away Meets the Empire State
The skyline of New York City is iconic, but last week, it became even more unforgettable. For one night only, Star Wars fans saw the Empire State Building lit up in celebration of the galaxy’s greatest saga—and none were more excited than Ricardo Chorrillos, assistant store manager at the Disney Store in Times Square.
“I have goosebumps…we just saw Hayden Christensen light up the Empire State Building,” Ricardo said, beaming. “Darth Vader himself was here today! I can’t stop smiling.”
A Childhood Dream Turned Reality
Ricardo’s journey with Star Wars began on a humble 13-inch TV screen when he was a kid. “I was pulled to the screen, watching the spaceships and the lightsabers flash. I thought it was wonderful,” he recalled.
Years later, his childhood fascination would come full circle—landing him in the heart of the Star Wars NYC event, surrounded by action figures, apparel, collectibles, and even celebrity appearances.
From Store Guest to Disney Cast Member
Nearly a decade ago, Ricardo was shopping at the Disney Store for a pair of dress-up shoes for his daughter Lorelei. A helpful cast member not only found the perfect pair—but also helped Ricardo discover a future career.
Now, he leads a team of cast members who create magic daily for Disney Store guests from around the world. “Even if we’re just setting plush on a shelf, we make it special,” Ricardo shared. “It’s about what that plush means to the guest. That’s where the magic is.”
Bringing the Magic Home
So when Ricardo was invited to attend the Star Wars celebration in NYC, there was no question who he’d bring along: his daughter, Lorelei.
“When I learned I could bring Lorelei, I immediately wondered what she’d want to wear,” he smiled. With a closet full of Star Wars shirts and jackets, she’d be ready for her own galactic moment. The father-daughter duo has shared countless memories from film screenings to Walt Disney World trips—always with their favorite Star Wars looks in tow.
A NYC Night to Remember
While exploring the dazzling displays and new merchandise, Ricardo soaked in every second. “When someone mentions Star Wars, I’m there,” he laughed. “But seeing this celebration in my city – NYC – is just amazing.”
The Star Wars NYC event was a night where magic met memories. For Ricardo and Lorelei, it was more than lights and legacy—it was family, fandom, and the Force.
