Disney Store Times Square Cast Member Witnesses Star Wars Light Up the Empire State Building

Star Wars took over the Empire State Building in New York City during the March to May the 4th campaign, and Disney Store Times Square assistant store manager Ricardo Chorrillos was front and center — watching Hayden Christensen activate the spectacular light show alongside his daughter, Lorelei. For Ricardo, a nearly nine-year Disney cast member whose love of the franchise began in childhood, the evening was a collision of personal history and professional pride.

When Star Wars lit up the Empire State Building in New York City during the annual March to May the 4th campaign, Ricardo Chorrillos, assistant store manager at Disney Store Times Square, was among the crowd — watching Hayden Christensen activate the landmark light show alongside fellow fans and his daughter, Lorelei. For Ricardo, a nearly nine-year cast member whose love of Star Wars started in childhood, the evening was a convergence of personal and professional magic. The two-part event also showcased new Star Wars action figures, toys, collectibles, apparel, accessories, and celebrity talent.

Star Wars Lights Up the New York Skyline

New York City's famous skyline took on a galactic glow when Star Wars took over the Empire State Building as part of the annual March to May the 4th celebrations. The event, which marked a two-part experience filled with new product reveals and celebrity appearances, drew fans from across the city — including one particularly enthusiastic cast member from Disney Store Times Square.

"I have goosebumps — we just saw Hayden Christensen light up the Empire State Building," said Ricardo Chorrillos afterward. "Darth Vader himself was here today! I can't stop smiling."

From a 13-Inch TV Screen to the Streets of New York City

Ricardo's love for Star Wars traces back to his childhood, when he first watched the films on a small television screen. "I was pulled to the screen, watching the spaceships and the lightsabers flash across our tiny 13-inch TV. I thought it was wonderful," he recalled.

That childhood fascination eventually led Ricardo through the door of a Disney Store — not as an employee, but as a father searching for dress-up shoes for his daughter. A cast member who helped him that day eventually convinced Ricardo to join the team, launching a nearly nine-year career at the company.

Today, Ricardo leads a team of cast members at Disney Store Times Square, where he brings the same sense of meaning to every interaction that drew him to the brand in the first place. "Even if we're just setting plush on a shelf, we make it special," Ricardo said. "It's not just about the plush; it's about what that plush means to the guest. Whether that is a cherished memory or a favorite movie — there is a unique connection to the magic."

A Special Evening Shared with Family

When Ricardo learned he could bring a guest to the Star Wars Empire State Building event, he knew immediately who that would be: his daughter, Lorelei. Over the years, the two have shared movie screenings and even trips to Walt Disney World, often sporting matching Star Wars outfits. Bringing Lorelei to a night that combined his professional world with their shared fandom made the evening all the more meaningful.

"Would she choose one of her favorite shirts or maybe a themed jacket? I knew she would be just as excited as me!" Ricardo said.

"When someone mentions Star Wars, I'm there," Ricardo said with a laugh. "But, seeing this in my city — NYC — is just amazing."

What This Means for Star Wars Fans

The March to May the 4th campaign continues to grow as a flagship moment in the Star Wars fan calendar, with activations that extend far beyond the parks and into the cultural fabric of major cities. For Disney cast members like Ricardo Chorrillos, these events represent a rare opportunity where personal passion and professional purpose converge. Fans in New York City can connect with Ricardo and his team at Disney Store Times Square any day of the year — and can follow future Star Wars news through StarWars.com.