Ahsoka Tano has had quite the journey in Star Wars film and television, from her introduction as the unexpected apprentice of Anakin Skywalker to the headliner of her own series. Ashley Eckstein was in her 20s when Star Wars: The Clone Wars was released in 2008, but she convincingly crafted the role of the teenage padawan, who took some getting used to.
As described by Cinemablend's Laura Hurley, Eckstein has a specific cause for nerves lately. This iconic actress is also known for creating the "Fashion for fangirls" retailer Her Universe, and this year marks the tenth annual fashion show at San Diego Comic-Con. She is anxious about the prospect of hosing the show that will take place on July 25. Eckstein explains some behind-the-scenes details of what attendees do not see:
"I tell everyone, every year, this show is the most nervous I am for anything, period, the end. I get so nervous for every show. I am backstage almost getting sick. I am just beside myself with nerves every year... But that's also a good thing. They say if you're not nervous, then you're not ready. So yes! I'm in the phase, where this show not only allows the designers competing to dream, but it allows me to dream. I'm actually doing something in the show this year that I've been dreaming of doing since 2017 and I haven't been able to pull it off."Ashley Eckstein
This year's show "will showcase the creativity of no fewer than 25 designers on the runway at SDCC this year, with one-of-a-kind geek couture looks that can't be found anywhere else." Eckstein describes the transformation of the unbearable anticipation to an unforgettable experience:
"The second I walk out on that stage and do the opening moment, then the nerves just turn into excitement. It's like pure excitement, pure adrenaline, and I just have so much fun... I wish we could bottle up the excitement and the passion in that ballroom and then just keep it all year long."Ashley Eckstein
Her "number one rule" is that any fandom can be showcased. For years, Her Universe has been the place to find the perfect clothing for any fangirl of the galaxy far, far away, but there's something for more people now. You can still find a Princess Leia dress or an Ahsoka hoodie, but you can also shop licenses from A Christmas Story to The Legend of Zelda and levels to Penelope's teal dress from Season 3 of Bridgerton. Even more wonderful is the section called Our Universe, which branches out into fandom for other genders.
San Diego Comic-Con attendees have much to look forward to, and we're sure that Ashley will channel Ahsoka, "the one with enthusiasm," to get through her pre-show jitters. We're all looking forward to seeing what's next from the geeky line.