Why E.T. and Yoda Could Have Been Friends at One Point

When it comes to science fiction, Star Wars stands as the ultimate franchise for many fans around the world. Though it started as an ambitious project that faced initial skepticism, it quickly evolved into a beloved classic that has influenced generations and set the standard for sci-fi storytelling.

On the other hand, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is one of the most cherished standalone sci-fi films of all time. This heartwarming story about a stranded alien longing to return home captivated millions worldwide and became a defining childhood favorite.

Star Wars was created by George Lucas, while E.T. was directed by Steven Spielberg. The two filmmakers, close friends and frequent collaborators, often included Easter eggs referencing each other’s works in their movies.

These playful nods to each other’s films may even hint at an unexpected, intergalactic friendship between two of sci-fi’s most iconic characters: E.T. and Yoda!

When E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial premiered in 1982, George Lucas had already released two Star Wars films — A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back. In Empire, audiences were introduced to Jedi Master Yoda, a character who would go on to become one of the series’ most iconic figures.

But if you recall the Halloween scene in E.T., there’s a moment when E.T. spots a child in a Yoda costume and reacts as if he genuinely recognizes him.

This moment suggests two intriguing ideas. First, it places Star Wars within the world of E.T., hinting that the movies exist as cultural references in E.T.’s universe. But more intriguingly, it implies that E.T. might actually know Yoda.

If E.T. hadn’t seen Star Wars, how could he recognize Yoda so instinctively? Perhaps he merely sensed the character as another alien, but the scene seems to suggest familiarity with Yoda or someone of his species. Since E.T.’s age is never confirmed, it’s entirely possible he encountered Yoda’s kind at some point in his long life.

Here’s a look at the scene:

This Easter egg was a friendly nod from one filmmaker to another, and that’s really all it is. There isn’t a deeper, official connection between the two universes, despite all the fan theories out there. As fun as the idea is, it remains just that—a playful reference.

Nearly 20 years later, George Lucas returned the favor in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999). In one scene set in the Galactic Senate, we catch a glimpse of a group of Senators who look exactly like E.T.!

While we don’t learn anything about these characters, this clever cameo hints once again that Yoda and E.T. might indeed share a link—or at least that E.T. could know someone from Yoda’s species.

Here’s the scene in question:

As mentioned, this playful nod doesn’t affect the actual continuity of either universe. According to a 1999 newspaper interview, George Lucas included the E.T. cameo at Spielberg’s own suggestion, adding a fun touch for fans. And with that, our trivia journey comes to an end for this story.

Have your own theories or thoughts to add? Share them in the comments below!

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