Annie Arbogast took on the role of Sy Snootles in the initial release of Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi.
Arbogast, who was a vocalist for a local punk music group, often embraced punk aesthetics in her attire and makeup. During the production of Return of the Jedi, she held a position in the sound crew, where one of her responsibilities involved relocating cables throughout the studio.
Her vocal talents led to her being chosen to provide the voice for Sy Snootles in the song "Lapti Nek". She collaborated with Ben Burtt on crafting the Huttese lyrics.
Subsequently, Burtt recorded Arbogast's rendition of the song for the temporary soundtrack, planning to replace it with a different singer later on. However, George Lucas, the executive producer, and John Williams, the composer, made the decision to keep Arbogast's temporary recording in the version shown in theaters. During practice sessions and filming, "Lapti Nek" was performed using English lyrics.
For the soundtrack album, Williams chose to use a different version of the song, featuring Michele Gruska as the voice of Sy. The song, and Arbogast's version, was completely substituted by "Jedi Rocks" in the Special Edition.
Burtt mentioned that Arbogast eventually left behind her punk lifestyle and became a soccer mom.