Hasbro acquired Kenner, the original Star Wars toy maker, in 1991. The acquisition brought Kenner’s major licensed properties and product history into Hasbro’s portfolio.
Kenner had become famous for its Star Wars action figures after launching the line in the late 1970s. It also produced other major toys, including the popular Super Powers and Ghostbusters lines. Hasbro’s purchase helped consolidate the American toy industry and expanded Hasbro’s licensed-character business.
Because later Star Wars packaging often carries Hasbro branding, collectors sometimes assume Hasbro made the original 1970s figures. The historical sequence is Kenner first, followed by Hasbro ownership and later releases under Hasbro-controlled brands.