California Assemblywoman Ling Ling Chang has joined “Star Wars” star Mark Hamill in the fight against the sale of fake autographs with a new bill that requires a certificates of authenticity for signed memorabilia.
According to Entertainment Weekly, Chang has introduced bill AB 1570, which will make certificates of authenticity required for all signed memorabilia sold in California.
Hamill has publicly and repeatedly condemned forged autographs. “I’m so sorry there’s so many fans spending their hard-earned money for fraudulent signatures,” he Tweeted late last year, before reiterating that sentiment in an interview with the Los Angeles Times.
Chang contacted Hamill upon learning of his fight against fake autographs. “I got on the phone with him and it was very touching to see how passionate he was,” she shared. “What he said to me is that his fans are like family and that he did not want to see kids being victimized as he’s seen in the past. It’s such an honor to have him on board with us.”
Hamill most recently reprised his role as Luke Skywalker in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” Directed by J.J. Abrams, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” also stars franchise veterans Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Peter Mayhew, Anthony Daniels and Kenny Baker, joined by newcomers John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, Lupita Nyong’o, Gwendoline Christie and Max von Sydow. The film is now playing in theaters.
