The Goldbergs has landed an iconic guest for its latest ’80s pop culture reference with the announcement that Rick Moranis will be on the May 9 episode.
Moranis, who had semi-retired from acting in 1997 to spend more time with his family, will be reprising his memorable villain, Dark Helmet, from Mel Brooks’ 1987 Star Wars parody Spaceballs.
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According to USAToday, Moranis will be voicing the character in one of Adam Goldberg’s (Sean Giambrone) dreams. According to the episode’s synopsis, Adam “encounters Dark Helmet storming his bedroom to battle with the Schwarts,” which is an homage to Star Wars‘ the Force. In the course of the episode, Adam “promises to get a sequel to Spaceballs produced before waking up.”
The Goldbergs creator Adam F. Goldberg is a longtime fan of Moranis and Brooks, and went to great lengths to bring Moranis on board.
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“I truly think Rick Moranis gave the most underrated and brilliant comedic performance in any ‘80s movie as Dark Helmet,” Goldberg said in a statement. “I’ve been a lifelong fan of his work and became obsessed with having him reprise the role on my show. As an added bonus, maybe this even gets Spaceballs back in the conversation, and I can get my dream of helping make a sequel!”
The episode will air on ABC on Wednesday, May 9 at 8 pm ET/PT.