The Set Up

The show started as we lured Lord Vader to one of the forward decks of the Star Destroyer Inquisition under the pretense of a routine troop inspection. Admiral Piett helped us with our clever little ruse. When the elevator doors slid open, instead of a garrison of trembling troops, Lord Vader found host Ralph Edwards of the popular TV show, This is Your Life, a camera crew and a live studio audience.

A Disturbance in the Force? Admiral Piett, one of Lord Vader's co-workers had this to say about the tense few moments leading up to our surprise. "I think he knew something was up. He seemed oddly self aware. He kept asking me if his cowl was straight. I was really nervous because traditionally he doesn't like surprises and the results can be well ... deadly. But when he saw Ralph Edwards standing on the deck ... man, you should have seen the look on his helmet."

Vader: What is this Piett? What is going on here?

The show's host, Ralph Edwards, approached Lord Vader warmly with a small box and a book tucked under one arm.

Edwards: Lord Vader, how are you?

Vader: Who are you?

Edwards: Here my Lord, take this, it's a present for you.

Ralph Edwards handed Lord Vader the customary This is Your Life charm bracelet that has several tiny charms on it. Each charm represents a milestone in Vader's life.

Vader: I don't normally wear jewelry but ...

Edwards: Darth Vader, this is your life!

Vader: Oh! Oh! You! Piett! You! I'm going to kill you! I can't belive this.

Edwards: Lord Vader, will you come with me please? I have a story I'd like to tell you... a story about you.

Vader: I really am going to kill you, Piett.

Photo courtesy © Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.Digital work by ILM "You guys ... you got me. I can't believe you guys!"