The Bristol actor is donating the proceeds to a cause close to his heartNews
Filipa Gaspar and Shannon Brown Reporter
08:10, 02 May 2025
Stephen Merchant (Image: Paul Gillis/Reach PLC)
Actor Stephen Merchant is selling his childhood Star Wars toys to help raise money for a local school.
The comedian and actor was born in Hanham in Bristol and went on to co-write The Office and Extras with his writing partner Ricky Gervais.
His most recent work – the comedy drama series The Outlaws – was filmed in his hometown.
Now, Star Wars fans have the opportunity to buy his childhood toys that he treasured so much, with the funds going to a local school in South Bristol.
More than thirty lots of action figures and playsets will be going under the hammer at Auctioneum Ltd in Bristol on May 28.
“Every child born in the seventies grew up with Star Wars around them,” says auctioneer Andrew Stowe, “but for some, the franchise had a greater effect.”
Stephen first saw The Empire Strikes aged six when it was released in cinemas and it had a profound effect on him. It’s where he fell in love with cinema.
“We sell many childhood collections of toys,” adds Andrew, “but when that child grew up to be one of the countries’ most recognisable stars, it really makes them special.
“These are no longer just ‘toys’, they’re important social artefacts.”
One of the most sought after lots available from Stephen’s collection is his original Millennium Falcon playset.
“It’s in remarkably good condition,” says Andrew. “Usually they are battered and bruised from flights around the living room – but Stephen clearly treasured this as it’s complete and in good condition.”
The Millennium Falcon is estimated to fetch more than £200.
“My favourite item from his collection is his Darth Vader figure,” says Andrew. “Dave Prowse – the actor who portrayed Darth Vader in the original trilogy – was also born and raised in Bristol. As a Bristol boy myself, it doesn’t really get much better: two Bristol legends represented by one item!”
All of the funds raised from the sale of Stephen’s childhood toys is being donated to Ashton Park School where his niece and nephew attend.
They are raising funds to build a new outdoor covered space for lessons, activities and events.
The collection can be viewed on Auctioneum’s website from Sunday, May 4 (International Star Wars day) and until the auction ends on the 19th May – www.auctioneum.co.uk