Original R2-D2 builder Tony Dyson dies at 68

Image via the BBC

Professor Tony Dyson, the engineer who built the original R2-D2 robots used in the Star Wars films, died recently at the age of 68.

As the BBC reports, Dyson was found dead by police in his home on the Maltese island of Gozo. No evidence of foul play has been found, but a post-mortem will be conducted to confirm he died of natural causes.

Dyson contributed to the animatronics and electronics of many films, including Superman 2, Moonraker and Dragon Slayer. The latter earned him an Emmy nomination for special effects work, but the high point of his career was his work on Star Wars’ suite of R2-D2 robots.

Originally designed by Ralph McQuarrie, who also designed Darth Vader, Chewbacca and C-3PO, the R2-D2 line consisted of eight robots, all built by Dyson. The professor spent roughly five months on the project, which he called one of the most exciting times of his life.

GameZone wishes Dyson’s friends and family the best in this difficult time.

Thanks, Polygon.