Wearing his preference on his chest.

Outside of movie houses throughout the nation, vigils were held as these bundles of circuitry prepared to view what is likely to be the last film to feature a gay robot for some time to come. Without any roles in feature films on the horizon, the trailblazing robot has decided to hang up his acting chaps in favor of the quiet life.

C-3PO has been an outspoken advocate for gay robot rights ever since he was thrust into the spotlight with the premier of the first Star Wars film in 1977, which at the time, was considered to be quite risqué because of his inclusion in the movie.

 Acting against creator George Lucas’ wishes for the protocol droid to “play-down” his particular persuasion in order to avoid controversy, 3PO embraced his newfound celebrity as a platform to educate the public and further the advancement of his gay robot counterparts—a mission that he has continued to this day.

Although his efforts have been somewhat ineffective by some standards, his supporters say that just the fact that he was out there in front of the issue did more than any other robot has been able to accomplish before, or since.

According to C-3PO’s management team, the kind words and demonstrations of support and admiration from his fans have “almost made him feel as though he had a heart,” and have given the shiny icon hope for the future of gay robots everywhere. “C-3PO is very touched and proud that all of his fans and metal peers have displayed such a rousing appreciation for his life’s work, both on and off the screen.

Although he is saddened that his tenure as the gayest robot in space is drawing to a close, he hopes that someday, the skies may be filled with the emotionless, deadpan laughter of a million gay robots, all achieving the dream that he has lived for the last thirty years.

He is honored, and considers it a privilege to have served his community for so long, and with such adoration from all of you.” C-3PO’s swan song and departure from feature films is bittersweet to those who loved him the most, regretting his loss not merely because of his skill as a spokesbot for gay robot rights or his acting talents, but also because it is thought to be some time before another movie may come along that will turn an average gay robot into an extraordinary iconic hero.