The Most Epic Fantasy and Sci-Fi Website

Star Wars’ Legendary ‘Pink Shorts Boom Guy’ Ken Nightingall Dies at 92


It is time to say goodbye to yet another Star Wars legend. Ken Nightingall, the veteran boom operator who has forever immortalized as the "Pink Shorts Boom Guy" in A New Hope, has passed away at the age of 92.

Nightingall's passing was confirmed by The Association of Motion Picture Sound on its official Twitter account. The cause of death was not revealed.

He may not have been in any of the memorable moments in A New Hope but Nightingall became a legend after a behind-the-scenes photo from the film was shared on social media. In the picture that was taken in Tunisia, the boom operator is shown wearing only a pair of pink shorts and work boots as he balances the boom mic over Mark Hamill and Anthony Daniels. Since then, Nightingall has been dubbed "Pink Shorts Boom Guy" and has become a favorite for cosplayers attending fan conventions.

Interestingly, Nightingall revealed that he had a valid reason for his unusual look in the famous photo. The boom operator, who was part of the mostly British crew working on A New Hope, claimed that it "was very, very hot" in Tunisia during the time.

In addition to his work on A New Hope, Nightingall also served as boom operator on several James Bond films. His other works include Alfie, Funeral in Berlin, The Boys from Brazil and Supergirl. It's safe to say he probably didn't wear his infamous outfit while working on any of these other projects.

Goodbye, old friend, and may the Force be with you.

Related: Star Wars' Legendary ‘Pink Shorts Boom Guy' Speaks Out 40 Years After ANH

For more articles like this, take a look at our Star Wars page.