Recommended music: Parry Gripp – Baby Yoda (Floating In A Pod)
For this #StarWarsSaturday, we’re taking a look at one more set of trading cards from the saga: Topps The Mandalorian: Journey of The Child!
When The Mandalorian first aired, Grogu—better known online as “Baby Yoda”—quickly became a huge cultural hit. He brought Star Wars fans together and even caught the attention of people outside the fandom, thanks largely to internet memes.
Memes featuring Grogu transcend traditional sci-fi circles, using his expressive eyes and childlike curiosity to represent everyday human experiences, such as waiting for food, hiding from social interaction, or feeling vulnerable. Following the deeply polarizing sequel trilogy, Grogu provided a wholesome, shared focal point that brought frustrated and casual fans back together. The viral, organic spread of these digital images fueled an immediate merchandising frenzy, cementing Grogu as a multi-generational icon who keeps the franchise deeply relevant.
In the end, Grogu helped turn Star Wars from a complex, serious story into something fans could enjoy online every day.
The Topps The Mandalorian: Journey of The Child trading card set came out in April 2020 and was probably the first Baby Yoda merchandise to show scenes from the whole first season. In addition to the 25-card base set, each box also contained two parallel cards (see the green borders above) and a five-card set of illustrated cards that fit right in with the Grogu memes. The set centers on the bounty Mando protects, known then as “The Child,” and highlights Baby Yoda’s adventures and memorable moments from the first season of the Disney+ series.
The Mandalorian & Grogu movie is now in theaters! I had a great time watching it with my friends and family on a big IMAX screen. I won’t give away any story details, but I recommend seeing it on the big screen soon. Even if you’re just a casual Star Wars or movie fan, it’s easy to enjoy. That wraps up the “Journey of the Child” for now—next week, we’ll explore another part of the saga!
#BabyYoda
#TheMandalorianAndGrogu
#ThisIsTheWay
#ToyPhotography
Dale's Toys 