Star Wars A New Hope Original Studio Photograph Liz Moore

Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (20th Century-Fox, 1977)

Liz Moore was a highly skilled sculptor and model maker known for her work on the original Star Wars trilogy. Born in 1948 in Scotland, she had a background in fine arts and initially worked in the film industry on various projects before being recruited by George Lucas’s team for Star Wars.

One of her most notable contributions was the creation of the iconic droid, C-3PO. Moore, alongside concept artist Ralph McQuarrie, played a crucial role in bringing the character to life. She sculpted the initial designs and models that would ultimately become the full-body suit worn by actor Anthony Daniels. Her ability to translate McQuarrie’s two-dimensional sketches into a three-dimensional form was pivotal in achieving the sleek and distinctive look of the protocol droid.

Moore’s work extended beyond C-3PO. She was also involved in the creation of Stormtrooper armor, contributing to the design and fabrication of these now-legendary costumes. Her expertise in sculpting and model making helped ensure that the visual elements of Star Wars were both realistic and futuristic, contributing significantly to the film’s immersive quality.

Tragically, Liz Moore’s career was cut short when she died in a car accident in 1976, before the release of Star Wars in 1977. Despite her untimely death, her contributions to the Star Wars universe left an indelible mark on the franchise. Her work continues to be celebrated by fans and serves as a testament to her skill and vision as an artist.