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Oscar-Winning Production Designer Les Dilley Dies at 84

Celebrated for his work on 'Star Wars' and 'Raiders of the Lost Ark,' Dilley leaves behind a six-decade legacy in cinema.

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© Toby Canham/Getty Images

Overview

  • Les Dilley, known for his Academy Award-winning art direction on 'Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope' and 'Raiders of the Lost Ark,' passed away on May 20, 2025, due to complications from Alzheimer's disease.
  • Dilley's career spanned over 60 years, during which he worked on iconic films such as 'Alien,' 'The Empire Strikes Back,' 'Superman,' and 'The Abyss.'
  • He began his career at 15 with an apprenticeship at Associated British Picture Corporation and later earned two Oscars and multiple nominations for his contributions to film design.
  • In 2020, he was honored with a BAFTA Award for Outstanding Contribution to British Cinema, recognizing his lasting influence on the industry.
  • Dilley is survived by his wife of 38 years, Leslie, their four children, and a daughter from his first marriage, with tributes pouring in from the film community and fans worldwide.