Exclusive | Billy Dee Williams celebrates lasting legacy of Empire Strikes Back on films 45th anniversary

The greatest film in the galaxy.“Star Wars: Episode V — The Empire Strikes Back” is 45 years old today – and Billy Dee Williams couldn’t be prouder to have starred in such a ground-breaking piece of cinema.“Working on ‘The Empire Strikes Back’ was like stepping into a dream — an adventure in every sense,” the 88-year-old actor who played Lando Calrissian exclusively told The Post.

“George Lucas, Irvin Kershner, and the entire team created a world so rich and real that it was impossible not to get swept away,” Williams added.“I knew it was something special even then, but none of us could have predicted the lasting impact it would have.”Williams made his “Star Wars” debut in the 1980 film directed by Kershner (who died in 2010) with a story by Lucas, 81.Upon its release, “The Empire Strikes Back” got mixed reviews from critics and fans, many of whom complained about the film’s dark tone that culminated in the bad guys winning in the end.But after many years, “The Empire Strikes Back” became universally considered the best “Star Wars” movie.“Forty-five years later, ‘The Empire Strikes Back’ still resonates because it’s not just about battles and starships — it’s about friendship, sacrifice and hope,” Williams told The Post.

“To be part of a story that has inspired generations is a humbling honor.I feel the love from fans every day, and it never gets old.”In the film, Lando initially betrays his longtime pal Han Solo (Harrison Ford), before he has a change of heart and backstabs the Empire — thus securing fan-favorite status.“Lando was, and still is, a trailblazer,” said Williams.

“He showed audiences that charm, complexity and courage could live in one man.”Williams added: “I always approached him with a sense of dignity and fun, and I’m proud that after all these years, Lando still holds such a beloved place in the galaxy.”Editor Paul Hirsch exclusively told The Post that working on th...