We’ve already seen footage and photos of the Imperial droidK-2SO(Alan Tudyk) in the upcomingRogue One: A Star Wars Story, but it seems the Imperial Army has even more new droids at their disposal. Earlier today, LucasFilm unveiled a first look at Imperial astromech droid C2-B5, which, as you’re able to see in the photo below, has quite a familiar design. This droid bears a striking resemblance to R2-D2, but this lillte guy is actually quite different.
The droid was unveiled onStarWars.com’s weekly YouTube seriesThe Star Wars Show, where hostPeter Townleyunveiled the first image and new details about this robot. We don’t know how significant a role this little droid will have, but we did learn that thisastromech droidmay have the same responsibilities as Rebel droids, although they’re treated much differently. Here’s whatPeter Townelyhad to say in his C2-B5 segment ofThe Star Wars Show.
“As you may know, the Galactic Empire relies on astromech droids to maintain its machinery. But, unlike the Rebel Alliance, Imperial technicians do not grant their droids independence, and subject them to frequent memory wipes, to keep them subservient. Does C2-B5 fall into all this? Well, you’ll just have to find out this December whenRogue Oneis released.”
This reveal comes just hours after LucasFilm unveiled the first in a series ofanimated shortsthat will be made by fans using brand newRogue Onetoys. The shorts will be released all throughout September, leading up to the Force Friday event on September 30. Force Friday also marks the first date that fans can submit their own “Go Rogue” videos, which will be chosen by a panel includingRogue One: A Star Wars StorydirectorGareth Edwards, and winners will be invited toRogue Oneand see their short story on the big screen.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Storyis set between the events ofRevenge of the SithandA New Hope, following a team who takes on a mission to find the plans for the originalDeath Star. The all-star cast includesFelicity Jones,Ben Mendelsohn,Forest Whitaker,Mads Mikkelsen,Alan Tudyk,Diego Luna,Riz Ahmed,Donnie YenandWen Jiang. Take a look at this photo of C2-B5 below, along with this week’s episode ofThe Star Wars Show. you’re able to skip to the 2:08 mark of the video below for the C2-B5 reveal.
