When word broke that a real life Fanboys situation was happening involving a terminally ill Star Wars fan named Daniel Fleetwood, he didn’t feel that he’d live to see the film’s official release in theaters. His story went viral, garnering the attention of fellow fans and stars of The Force Awakens, John Boyega and Mark Hamill.
Luckily, the Force For Daniel movement also reached director J.J. Abrams who, much like he did with Star Trek Into Darkness, arranged for a private screening of the film for Daniel. According to The Verge, Fleetwood’s partner posted a note on FB that confirmed the news, noting that Abrams called them and informed them that the film was on its way:
YES! Thank you @Disney, @HamillHimself, @starwars and everyone who helped this man get a smile on his face! pic.twitter.com/mWrF1xqqbY
— calexakolive (@calexakolive) November 5, 2015
Given his connection to the whole turn of events, Mark Hamill showed his appreciation on Twitter. This might not have gotten as much attention had Hamill not been involved from the start.
I just read this and am elated for Daniel & his family! Thanks to the powers-that-be for making his dream come true. https://t.co/ImiAdyBxf8
— Mark Hamill (@MarkHamill) November 5, 2015
All and all, it’s a fine conclusion to a somewhat heartbreaking tale. Daniel is still facing some dire circumstances, but he can check this one last thing off of his bucket list. Hopefully his other wish isn’t to jump online and spoil it for everybody else. I’d rather be disappointed or thrilled when it hits theaters.
(Via The Verge)