The 2017 Star Wars The Black Series R5‑D4 (40th Anniversary) brings the malfunctioning astromech from the Lars Homestead droid sale into the retro‑carded celebration of A New Hope. This release uses the 2017 Black Series sculpt — originally a GameStop exclusive — now presented on a vintage Kenner‑style cardback with ANH photography and silver anniversary branding.
Released as part of Wave 1 of the 40th Anniversary line, this figure includes:
- Removable antenna
- Pop‑up motivator panel
The sculpt captures R5’s distinctive red dome, weathered Tatooine body, and the iconic “bad motivator” moment.
Technical Details & Sculpt
Overall Sculpt & Proportions
R5‑D4’s sculpt is faithful, compact, and screen‑accurate:
- red conical dome
- sculpted vents and panels
- weathered white body
- three‑leg configuration
The silhouette matches his ANH appearance during the droid sale.
Dome & Panels
The dome features:
- matte red finish
- sculpted holo‑projector
- removable antenna
- pop‑up motivator panel
The motivator panel is the key feature of this release.
Body & Legs
The sculpt includes:
- sculpted vents and grilles
- blue and red panel accents
- articulated legs
- retractable third leg
The design reflects his worn Tatooine condition.
Articulation
R5‑D4 includes:
- rotating dome
- hinged legs
- articulated feet
- retractable third leg
Supports scanning poses, motivator‑failure poses, and Tatooine silhouettes.
Paint & Deco
The paintwork emphasizes desert wear:
- matte white body
- red dome with weathering
- blue panel accents
- subtle sand shading
The palette matches his ANH appearance.
Accessories & Equipment
R5‑D4 includes:
Antenna
- removable
- screen‑accurate sculpt
Pop‑Up Motivator Panel
- deployable
- recreates the “bad motivator” moment
These accessories complete his ANH droid‑sale loadout.
Packaging (40th Anniversary)
As part of the 40th Anniversary line, R5‑D4 arrives on a vintage‑style cardback:
- silver 40th Anniversary border
- classic Kenner layout
- ANH character photo
- retro blister bubble
- large display‑friendly footprint
The cardback is the centerpiece of this release.
Collector Notes
- A reissue of the 2017 sculpt on a retro cardback.
- Includes antenna and pop‑up motivator.
- Essential for Tatooine, Lars Homestead, and 40th Anniversary displays.
- Pairs naturally with R2‑D2, C‑3PO, Jawas, and Luke (Farmboy).
- A key figure for completing the ANH droid lineup.
Display & Photography Notes
R5‑D4 photographs beautifully under warm, directional lighting that highlights the weathered dome and motivator panel. Three‑quarter angles emphasize the astromech silhouette.
For dioramas, he excels in:
- Tatooine desert scenes
- Lars Homestead
- Jawa Sandcrawler
- ANH droid lineups
His sculpt supports expressive, characterful poses that capture the humor, charm, and iconic failure of R5‑D4 — making this figure a must‑have for any Original Trilogy or 40th Anniversary collection.