The Men Behind Buck Rogers’ Robotic Pal, Twiki: Felix Silla and Mel Blanc

When Buck Rogers in the 25^th Century debuted on motion picture screens in the spring of 1979, and then on NBC television later that year, one of my favorite characters was a cute little robot named Twiki. On the show, he was referred to a few times as an “Ambuquad.” I know. I know — it sounds like ’70s sci-fi mumbo jumbo to me now, but back then, I ate it up.

As that first season progressed, Twiki, who I started referring to as “that funny little robot guy,” really was quite endearing. Twiki was usually accompanied by Dr. Theopolis (also known as Theo), whom Twiki wore on his chest. They were a great team: Theo was the “straight man,” and Twiki provided the comic relief. With his trademark catchphrase, “Bidi-bidi-bidi, what’s up, Buck?” he was guaranteed to bring a smile to my face every time he showed up on the screen.