The Ewoks from STAR WARS could have looked completely different. Surprising concept sketches

In the sixth installment of “Star Wars”, “Return of the Jedi”, the Ewoks made their debut—a bear-like species inhabiting the forest moon of Endor, where the final battle between the Rebellion and the Empire took place. George Lucas introduced them because he wanted the film to include a primitive group of creatures that would aid in the destruction of the Empire.

Lucas envisioned the Ewoks as being short (in contrast to the tall Wookiees), and their facial features were ultimately inspired by the creator’s dog. However, before reaching the final design, a series of concept sketches were created, some of which showcase ideas that differ significantly from the final result. Below, you’ll find a few examples.

Early Return of the Jedi concept art shows Nilo Rodis-Jamero imagined the Ewoks as tree creatures with strong legs and arms. pic.twitter.com/JUuLb6CpTt

— /Film (@slashfilm) December 29, 2018

Concept art of the Ewok homeworld in Return of the Jedi by Ralph McQuarrie pic.twitter.com/SyziF9oJDJ

— Star Wars Holocron (@sw_holocron) October 15, 2018

After the release of “Return of the Jedi”, the Ewoks also starred in two TV movies and an animated series. They also appeared in comic books.