Now Retired: Darth Vader Encounter at Star Wars Launch Bay
Update: Star Wars Launch Bay permanently closed on September 24, 2025. This Darth Vader encounter is permanently closed. The article below details the former meet-and-greet location. It is now part of our retired character meet-and-greet archive. If you would like to learn more about Darth Vader’s current location, see How to Meet Darth Vader at Disney World.
Star Wars Launch Bay was open from late 2015 to September 2025. Guests could formerly encounter Darth Vader daily at this location. This meet-and-greet was a must-do for every Star Wars fan! The following details are from the last time we walked through the experience.
Here is the Commander on the Bridge, best known for his role as Dark Lord of the Sith in the original Star Wars trilogy, episodes 4-6. The story of his fall from grace was continued in a prequel later on, episodes 1-3. If you have plans to meet characters during your vacation, we always recommend watching a few movies before your visit for a refresher.
We’ll go over a complete walkthrough of meeting Darth Vader below, but it’s important to note a few things before we continue:
- Lightning Lane: No
- Early Theme Park Entry Eligible: No
- Extended Evening Eligible: No
Darth Vader met guests at the former Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Darth Vader typically has the longest wait time for all three characters who meet at Star Wars Launch Bay. This afternoon, the posted wait time was 20 minutes.
I got in line for this character meet-and-greet at 2:13 p.m. after meeting Chewbacca, who meets next door. Then, at 2:36 p.m., it was my turn to meet Darth Vader. So it took 23 minutes to meet Darth Vader.
Darth Vader isn’t necessarily what you would call a talking character. He’s more of a give-orders character. But if you think about it, what kind of conversation could you really have with him? One minute, you’re excited to meet him. Then it’s your turn, and he says, “You! Come closer,” and “Let us dispense with the pleasantries.” There are also quite a few “huuuuhhhhhs” from his breathing.
My side of the conversation went something like, “Uh, okay.” The meet-and-greet ended when he said, “Now go.” And I was totally fine with it. Whatever you say, Darth!
Trust me, no matter how old you are, this meeting has a way of making you feel like you’ve gotten yourself into a bit of trouble. Remember, Darth Vader is a villain and will stay in character the entire time. When visiting with children, it’s essential to ensure they are prepared to meet this kind of character. The last thing you want is to traumatize your child. Disney World is supposed to be a magical place.
Unfortunately, a PhotoPass photographer was not present on the day of this visit. However, the cast members attending the meet were taking photos of guests with their devices.
If you have a Disney Visa card, you have another opportunity to meet Darth Vader at Star Wars Launch Bay. This is a separate queue, and you must show your Disney Visa or Disney Visa Rewards card to gain entry. This meet-and-greet is identical to the regular one, but the benefit is that you rarely have to wait in line.
Wait times are generally the lowest for this character meet first thing in the morning, and up to one hour before the location closes. So, if meeting Darth Vader is important to you, I recommend getting it out of the way sooner rather than later. Check back with Resorts Gal soon for more of our character coverage!
In the Comments
Are you sad this meet-and-greet location ended? Did you ever meet Darth Vader at Star Wars Launch Bay? Let us know in the comments.