Episode 148 — Shiny, Gritty & Growing the Empire

Recorded: September 20, 2026Released: October 5, 2026

The 501stCast is back with another transmission from Vader’s Fist! This month, we’re checking in on a growing Legion, celebrating some outstanding members, sharing mission reports from around the Empire, and finally settling one of costuming’s great debates: shiny or gritty?

The Empire continues to grow! As of September 20, the 501st Legion stands at 13,449 active troopers, adding 79 members since our last update.

Costume approvals also came roaring back with 168 newly approved costumes, including:

• 28 Denizens

• 23 TIE Pilots

• 18 Imperial Officers

• 13 Sith Lords

Apparently, the armorers, tailors, flight crews and Sith wardrobe departments have been busy.

We catch up on some of the latest news from around the Star Wars and 501st communities:

Lucas Museum of Narrative Art

Legion Census

Legion Merch

Legion CRL Forum

A familiar voice gets a little recognition this month!

Our own Anthony Pizzuto, SL-22381 of the Northeast Remnant Garrison, was named August Trooper of the Month for going above and beyond behind the scenes to support fellow Legion members and embody the spirit of Bad Guys Doing Good.

For more check out the Trooper of the Month Section on the 501st forums

Liana Kangas more at Honorary Member section of the 501st forums

Last month we asked the Legion:

Do you prefer your costumes shiny and fresh off the Imperial assembly line—or gritty, weathered and looking like they’ve actually seen some action?

We hear from members, including submissions gathered at Fan Expo Canada, and the crew weighs in on where they stand in the great weathering debate.

We pause to remember members who have entered the ranks of the Eternal Legionnaires:

Gizelle Evangelista — TI-90805, Philippine GarrisonAlan C. Hickey — TI-30971, Florida Garrison, Tampa Bay Squad

Buckets off to their families, friends and fellow troopers. Their names and memories remain part of the Legion we carry forward.

For more information check the Member Memorials section in the 501st forums

We want to hear from you:

Which planet in the Star Wars universe would you most want to troop on?

Send us your answer, topic ideas, interview suggestions or general transmissions:

Email: podcast@501stcast.com

Voicemail: +1 551-501-TALK (8255)

Facebook: The 501stCast

Web: 501stcast.com

Your response might make it into our next transmission.

Anthony Pizzuto — SL-22381, Northeast Remnant Garrison

Mike Hinton — TK-5351, Garrison Carida

Chris Nitro — TR-82065, Northeast Remnant Garrison

Mikey Bouchereau — TB-60614, Bluegrass Garrison

Matt Schraeder — TB-99920, Starkiller Garrison

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Until next time, keep your armor clean, your blasters charged, and remember:

We’re the Bad Guys Doing Good.