#198: An Interview with Jim Fong from Galoob!

Smugglers' Galaxy: A Star Wars Collecting Podcast

Galoob was a small toy company based in San Francisco that developed and sold several toy lines. In the early 90s, they were able to acquire a license to incorporate Star Wars vehicles in one of their most successful lines, MicroMachines. Jim Fong worked his way up to the roll of design director, and oversaw the development of Star Wars MicroMachines and the Action Fleet line. During this discussion Jim shares how he got the job at Galoob, the first time he saw Star Wars (it was early), how he became friends with Ralph McQuarrie, the Easter eggs he was able to hide in the toy line, visiting Skywalker Ranch, how MicroMachines were made, and shares some behind the scenes photos (watch those on YouTube!). Jim also shares his attempt to incorporate bathrooms in Action Fleet vehicles and also shares what might have been if Galoob wasn’t bought by Hasbro. All the while, Jason is geeking out! Download and listen this very special episode! Jim would like to add: ”I wish to thank the whole Galoob Team that made it such a great place to work. Without them, it would not have been as special as it was, and I thank the Galco team in Hong Kong for making our vision happen, and putting up with our constant changes. The company is gone but we will live forever in molded plastic!”