On November 17, 1978, the movie "The Star Wars Holiday Special" aired on CBS. This notorious television special has become a subject of fascination and derision among Star Wars fans and cinema enthusiasts alike.

The plot revolves around Chewbacca's family waiting for his return to celebrate "Life Day," a Wookiee holiday. The special features the original cast members, including Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher, alongside a variety of guest stars and musical numbers.

However, the special is often regarded as a disastrous misstep in the Star Wars franchise. Critics and fans have panned it for its bizarre plot, poor acting, and cringe-worthy musical performances. The low production quality and the inclusion of elements that don't fit the Star Wars universe, such as a Wookiee cooking show and a virtual reality sequence featuring Diahann Carroll, have made it a subject of ridicule.

George Lucas, the creator of Star Wars, has famously disowned the special, stating that he would destroy every copy if he could. The special was never officially released on home video, but bootleg copies have circulated among fans for decades.

Despite its reputation, "The Star Wars Holiday Special" has gained a cult following over the years. Some fans appreciate it for its kitsch value and the rare opportunity to see the original cast in a different context. The special also introduced the character of Boba Fett, who would later become a fan favorite in the Star Wars universe.

In recent years, the special has been referenced and parodied in various TV shows and movies, cementing its status as a curious footnote in the history of the Star Wars franchise and a memorable event in television history.