ROBONALITY. The creation of Johnny 5

39 years ago, I was tasked with the job of realizing Johnny 5, the much-loved robot star of the 1986 hit movie "Short Circuit". Many have credited me as the creator of Johnny 5. However, the creation of Johnny 5 was a collaboration of many talented artists. It all started with the script writing of Brent Maddock and SS Wilson. Director John Badham helmed the character development. Futurist, Syd Mead, Production Designer Philip Harrison and Myself were hired to meet with John to figure out the form function of Number 5. From there I equipped a shop in a North Hollywood warehouse and hired 50 talented artists and fabricators. In 10 weeks we created all of the action props needed to realize Johnny Five. John and I interviewed puppeteers to work the hardware resulting in the captivating performance of Tim Blainey. Here I intend to take you through the whole story of the creation of Johnny Five and introduce you to the Talented people who assembled, to create such an enduring character.