Happy Birthday! George Lucas Turns 71 Today

Today is Star Wars creator George Lucas' birthday.

Lucas first brought the galaxy far, far, away to life in 1977's Star Wars: A New Hope, spawning an entire fictional universe that several creators continue to explore to this day. While Lucas only directed the original trilogy's first installment, he helmed all three prequel films that came decades later. While The Phantom Menace, Attack of the Clones, and Revenge of Sith received a mixed response from fans, they certainly deepened Star Wars' mythology.

On top of directing, Lucas has overseen and produced several over Star Wars projects, along with another popular film franchise, Indiana Jones. While Lucas has taken a backseat in Star Wars' daily operations, the force is still strong with his franchise. A new Star Wars trilogy is set to begin this winter, when director J.J. Abrams' releases Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens.

Born in Modesto, California, Lucas turns 71 today. Happy birthday, George Lucas.