Mark Boudreaux, Hasbro’s legendary Star Wars toy designer has sadly passed away this past weekend.
Mark Boudreaux had worked at Kenner, and later Hasbro, designing toys for Star Wars and other brands for over 40 years before retiring in early 2020. Throughout my time covering Star Wars action figure news here on the website I've had the privilege of meeting Mark multiple times over the past two decades at conventions and Hasbro events. Each encounter left me thoroughly impressed by his engaging nature, friendliness, and his willingness to generously share his time and answer all kinds of questions about Star Wars action figures. The last time I met him in person was at Star Wars Celebration in Chicago in 2019, and when we talked about the Sail Barge he was very excited that figures could “walk” from one end to the ship to the other without any barriers, and that figures could hold on to the hand rails when walking up or down the stairs.
If you happen to own any Star Wars toys from the past four decades or more, it's highly likely that Mark played a significant role in their creation or was closely involved during their production. His absence will be deeply felt, and my heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones.
Included in this post are two pictures, one from the Sail Barge booklet and the other from SW Celebration Orlando 2017 with the Hasbro Star Wars team, during which he presented a special segment on designing 40 years of Star Wars toys.