Willard Huyck

Willard Huyck, a prominent American figure in the film industry as a screenwriter, director, and producer, is most recognized for his professional relationship with George Lucas. Their initial encounter occurred during their time as students at the University of Southern California. Huyck, in collaboration with his spouse Gloria (born Katz), has penned the screenplays for notable films such as American Graffiti and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. His directorial work includes four films, with his final directorial effort being the widely criticized Howard the Duck (1986).

Being close acquaintances of Lucas, the Huycks were requested to review the initial version of The Star Wars and share their thoughts. Furthermore, they were tasked with making slight adjustments to the dialogue in the fourth version shortly before filming commenced in 1976. George extended invitations to numerous intimate companions, including the Huycks, to attend the preview of his preliminary edit to gather their perspectives. The Huycks held a somewhat skeptical view of the film.

The proper pronunciation of their surname is "hike." The character Vanden Willard received his name as a tribute to Huyck.