Les Dilley, ‘Star Wars,’ ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ Art Director, Dies at 84

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Les Dilley, the Oscar-winning art director and production designer, has died. He was 84.

Les Dilley passed away on May 20, following complications from Alzheimer’s disease, as reported by his family. His legacy endures in the numerous iconic films he contributed to for over six decades, as well as in the family home he personally designed as a tribute to his work in cinema. His passion for the film industry was palpable until the very end. When not on set, he found joy in creating things in his workshop at home, playing ice hockey, and savoring a good cup of tea. Apart from his tireless work ethic, distinctive British wit, and zest for life, he was an affectionate and committed spouse, parent, grandparent, and friend to many. He will be deeply missed, as stated in a communication obtained by The Hollywood Reporter.

As a gamer, I’ve been on the creative team for over a century’s worth of video game projects, from humble beginnings to epic sagas that rival the greatest blockbusters. My most celebrated achievements are contributing to the art direction of “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” earning me Academy Awards for my efforts. This put me side by side with legendary directors like George Lucas, James Cameron, Steven Spielberg, Ridley Scott, Irvin Kershner, John Landis, and Mimi Leader – a dream come true for any creative mind.

Dilley was additionally recognized for outstanding art direction in the films Alien, The Empire Strikes Back, and The Abyss. In 2020, he received a prestigious BAFTA Award, acknowledging his valuable work within the realm of British filmmaking.

Dilley was born on July 11, 1941, in the Rhondda Valley of South Wales. After the end of World War II, his family moved to London. At the age of 15, Dilley embarked on his film career by taking up an apprenticeship in plastering and construction at the Associated British Picture Corporation. Simultaneously, he studied architecture and building construction at Willesden Technical College.

At 23, he was employed as a plaster worker in the movie “From Russia With Love,” which featured James Bond. Over time, he climbed the ranks in the art department, starting as a draftsman and eventually becoming an assistant art director on various films such as “Kelly’s Heroes” and “Jesus Christ Superstar.

Back in 1973, I had the privilege to serve as an art director under Richard Lester’s direction on his epic adaptation of “The Three Musketeers.” Later, I was fortunate enough to be a part of the creative force behind George Lucas’ groundbreaking project, “Star Wars.” Working alongside John Barry, Norman Reynolds, and Roger Christian, I contributed my skills to this cinematic masterpiece.

For approximately ten years, Dilley significantly influenced the visual style of iconic movies such as Superman, Alien, Empire Strikes Back, Raiders of the Lost Ark, An American Werewolf in London, Never Say Never Again, and Legend. In 1985, he transitioned to Hollywood where he served as a production designer on films like The Abyss, which was released in 1989 under the direction of James Cameron.

For the movie “The Abyss”, Dilley converted an abandoned nuclear power plant in South Carolina into massive underwater filming sets, with the main underwater tank being 55 ft deep and 209 ft wide. He shared that this project was particularly challenging for him, involving over a year’s worth of work, extended days until 3 am, and continuous construction on weekends. The art department kept working even during weekends, which meant Dilley had to frequently check on the progress. Having worked with water in movies like “Legend”, “Never Say Never Again”, and “Lucky Lady”, he had some experience with water but nothing close to the scale of “The Abyss”. Additionally, Dilley and his wife welcomed their first child during this film, making that period even more significant. He reminisced about these experiences in a 2020 interview for “Buzz”.

Among other credits, Dilley was involved with films such as The Exorcist III, Guilty by Suspicion, Casper, The Peacemaker, Inspector Gadget, Deep Impact, and Men of Honor. During the 1990s, he also worked as a second unit director on projects like Honey, I Blew Up the Kid, Diabolique, Pay It Forward, and Cold Creek Manor.

As a devoted admirer looking back on a remarkable career, I find myself reflecting upon the life of the esteemed film professional, Dilley. Accompanied throughout his 38-year journey by his cherished wife Leslie Lykes Dilley, they were blessed with four wonderful children who remain as his surviving family members.

A veritable powerhouse in the industry, Dilley was a proud member of several prestigious organizations including AMPAS (Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences), BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts), ADG (Art Directors Guild), DGA (Directors Guild of America), and SAG (Screen Actors Guild).

Throughout his entire career, Dilley had the privilege of being represented by the esteemed The Gersh Agency. Guided by the late Phil Gersh, David Gersh, and Barbara Halperin, their unwavering support was instrumental in his success.

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2025-05-24 19:25