Being C-3PO: Anthony Daniels on his role in Star Wars franchise voicing droid character for more than 40 years
- Actor’s memoir, C-3PO: The Inside Story, examines the cultural impact films have had and reveals his anger at not getting enough recognition for his efforts
- It’s an account of how an actor can develop intense ownership of a character
Playing C-3PO, the fussy gold droid in Star Wars, carries a responsibility – and Anthony Daniels has been a one-man ambassador for the franchise for more than 40 years.
Daniels opens Star Wars exhibitions and speaks at conventions, MCs at Star Wars concerts and product unveilings. In fact, since the 1977 original, only Daniels has been inside the C-3PO costume and voiced the character – and not only in the movies, but in the animated series, various commercials, and amusement park rides. “One reason people employ me [as C-3PO] is not only because I can perform the character, but I know what is right for him. In that way, he is as real as the last time you saw him.”
Daniels did not create C-3PO – that would be George Lucas – but in a remarkable, and largely unsung, feat of performance, the 73-year-old remains the only man to have played the droid since he originated the role at the age of 30. He remains the steward and literal embodiment of the role.
At a recent Star Wars festival in Reston, Virginia, when C-3PO strode across the screen and Daniels watched himself for the six billionth time as light danced on his face, he did not resemble an actor in love with himself.
His expression was full of puzzlement and wonder, as if he was being reminded once again that he is part of something very dear to many people and he should not take a moment like this, even at a small film festival in Virginia, for granted.
