The die-hard Star Wars fan who got to see “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” before its release, has passed away.
Daniel Fleetwood died in his sleep from spindle cell sarcoma according to a Tuesday Facebook post from his wife Ashley.
A massive campaign was launched to get “Star Wars” director J.J. Abrams to screen the film early for Fleetwood when it became clear the man was running out of time. The campaign received massive amounts of viral support, including encouragement from “Star Wars” stars Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, John Boyega, and Daisy Ridley, according to UPROXX. (RELATED: Newest International Trailer For ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ Is Totally Awesome [VIDEO])
YES! Thank you @Disney, @HamillHimself, @starwars and everyone who helped this man get a smile on his face! pic.twitter.com/mWrF1xqqbY
— Chris Alexakos (@Calexak0s) November 5, 2015
I just read this and am elated for Daniel & his family! Thanks to the powers-that-be for making his dream come true. https://t.co/ImiAdyBxf8 — Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) November 5, 2015
Fleetwood was flown to J.J. Abrams’ private residence to screen an unedited version of the film. After news of Fleetwood’s passing broke, “Star Wars” actor John Boyega expressed his condolences on Twitter.
#ForceForDaniel glad you got to see the movie more importantly that you slept in peace. God bless you man x x you inspire me xx — John Boyega (@JohnBoyega) November 10, 2015
“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” is scheduled for a December 18 release. (RELATED: Star Wars Ticket Sales CRUSH IMAX Records)