Leading U.S. toymaker JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (NASDAQ: JAKK), announced today it has signed an agreement with Lucasfilm to manufacture, distribute and market a 31” Darth Vader figure inspired by the iconic character from the Star Wars universe. The agreement also includes rights for additional product categories including flashlights, play tents, arcade games and more, to introduce a whole new generation of fans to Star Wars.

“We are excited to build on our existing relationship with Lucasfilm and produce new products based on one of the most iconic libraries of characters that generations of fans love,” said John Blaney, Executive Vice President, Marketing, JAKKS Pacific, Inc. “We will apply our extensive expertise in the development and marketing of large scale and collectible figures based on blockbuster action entertainment to create these larger than life figures that Star Wars fans of all ages will be excited about.”

“With a successful track record of bringing popular entertainment properties to life and with a strong passion for the franchise, JAKKS was the perfect licensing partner to enlist as we continue to build our consumer products portfolio for Star Wars,” said Anita Castellar, Global Licensing Manager, Lucasfilm. “With strong retailer relationships and global distribution, we are confident that together we will be able to deliver the experiences that our fans have come to expect from us.”

JAKKS will debut its 31” Darth Vader Figure at the International Toy Fair in New York City. The 31” Darth Vader Figure has seven points of articulation, highly detailed features and Darth Vader’s signature Lightsaber. The 31” Figure will be the largest articulated figure of the iconic villain and is expected to be available at major retailers nationwide in Fall 2013.