SOUNDBITES: Paul Welsh MBE – Why Gary Kurtz Chose Elstree Studios for STAR WARS. Paul Welsh, who led the campaign to save Elstree Studios in 1990s, recounts how he asked Star Wars producer, Gary Kurtz why they chose to produce the film at Elstree Studios.
Paul Welsh was awarded the MBE by the Queen for his services helping to save the world-famous Elstree Studios from closure and redevelopment. He has been closely allied with the studios since the late 1960s and as a film historian and writer he got to know many of the staff, production crew and actors who worked at Elstree.
Paul knew Peter Cushing particularly well and they corresponded until Peter passed away. Paul recorded an interview for our documentary PETER CUSHING: In His Own Words, which is currently in production. He also recorded a special interview for our PRODUCTION DIARY series.