The Strange Story of Snaggletooth

Snaggletooth is an obscure background alien from “A New Hope”, but he is one that toy collectors know well. Snaggletooth is one of the four Cantina aliens that Kenner released as action figures back in the late 70s. He is probably best known for the fact that Kenner initially messed up his design.

In the film “A New Hope”, Snaggletooth is a short being with a red robe, but because Kenner only had a black-and-white photo for reference, they designed him as a tall creature in a blue robe. Though they eventually fixed the mistake, rare “Blue Snaggletooth” have always been prized among collectors and they are available on Ebay for $300 - $400.

Snaggletooth was a popular figure back in the late 70s. In the film “ET” there is a scene where Elliot shows ET his collection of Star Wars figures. These figures include “Greedo”, “Hammerhead”, “Walrus Man”, and “Snaggletooth”. Amazingly, these four iconic cantina aliens are still being packaged together 40-some years later in plush varieties and Funko Pop.

 Eventually Snaggletooth would be given a real name (Zutton) and even a species name (Snivvian). Eagle-eyed fans will spot a Snivvian on Cloud City in “The Empire Strikes Back” and a Snivvian in Jabba’s Palace in “Return of the Jedi”.

 I’ll be back later this week with some more info about Snivvians and other aliens seen in the film “The Empire Strikes Back”. Until then, stay funky, Star Wars fans!