The iconic gold bikini worn by Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia in “Return of the Jedi” has been auctioned for an impressive $175,000. This memorable costume, which has become a symbol of the “Star Wars” franchise, was sold during a recent auction held by Heritage Auctions.
The auction took place from July 24 to 25 and featured a variety of “Star Wars” memorabilia. Among the items was the infamous “Slave Leia” bikini, which Fisher wore in the 1983 film while being held captive by Jabba the Hutt. The costume was designed by Richard Miller, the chief sculptor for Industrial Light & Magic, and was inspired by the artwork of Frank Frazetta.
Fisher herself had mixed feelings about the costume. In a 2016 interview with NPR, she recalled her initial reaction when director George Lucas presented the outfit to her. “I thought he was kidding and it made me very nervous,” she said. The costume required her to sit very straight to avoid any creases, which added to her discomfort.
The auction also featured a Y-wing model from the original “Star Wars” film, which sold for a staggering $1.55 million. This model, known as the “TIE Killer,” was used during the climactic battle scenes in “A New Hope.” It was designed by Colin Cantwell, who aimed to create distinct shapes for the ships to help audiences easily identify the heroes and villains.
Joe Maddalena, executive vice president of Heritage Auctions, noted the strong interest in both the bikini and the Y-wing model. He emphasized the enduring impact of the “Star Wars” franchise, stating, “The power of ‘Star Wars’ proves itself again. These movies are just so impactful.”
The gold bikini has become one of the most recognizable costumes in film history. It last sold for $96,000 at a “Star Wars” memorabilia auction in 2015. The recent auction sparked a bidding war among collectors, highlighting the costume’s significance in pop culture.
Fisher’s feelings about the costume were complex. While it became a defining moment for her character, she often expressed discomfort with the way it sexualized her. In a 2015 interview, she advised actress Daisy Ridley, who starred in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” to be prepared for the attention that comes with such iconic outfits. “You’re going to have people have fantasies about you. That will make you uncomfortable, I’m guessing,” she said.
Richard Miller, who created the bikini, acknowledged Fisher’s discomfort. He attempted to make the costume more comfortable by using soft materials and adding leather to the back. Despite these efforts, Fisher remained critical of the outfit, which she felt did not represent her style.
The auction also included other notable items, such as a movie poster from “Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home,” which sold for $106,250, and a Thor hammer from “Thor: The Dark World,” which fetched $81,250. A Mandalorian helmet sold for $40,000, while a wand used by Daniel Radcliffe in “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” went for $52,000.
The sale of Fisher’s gold bikini serves as a reminder of her lasting legacy in the “Star Wars” universe. Despite her passing in 2016, her character continues to resonate with fans around the world. The costume’s auction price reflects not only its historical significance but also the deep connection fans have with the franchise.
As the “Star Wars” saga continues to evolve, the impact of characters like Princess Leia remains strong. The gold bikini, once a source of discomfort for Fisher, has transformed into a cherished piece of cinematic history, celebrated by collectors and fans alike.
Source: UPI, Heritage Auctions, AP
