
Robby the Robot
Fictional characterAbout
Robby the Robot is a legendary fictional character from the 1956 science fiction film Forbidden Planet. Created by Dr. Morbius, Robby is a sophisticated mechanical servant built using knowledge from the ancient Krell. He exhibits artificial intelligence and a distinct personality, often displaying a dry wit. Robby is programmed to follow rules similar to Isaac Asimov's Three Laws of Robotics, ensuring he does not harm humans. His design, developed by MGM's art department, was groundbreaking at the time, featuring a glass dome head and spherical metal body parts. Robby's iconic status extends beyond Forbidden Planet. He appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including The Twilight Zone, Lost in Space, and Mork & Mindy. His appearances often served as a cost-saving measure but evolved into homages to the classic character. Robby's influence on pop culture is significant, with a toy version being highly popular. He was inducted into the Robot Hall of Fame in 2004, recognizing his enduring impact on science fiction. Robby remains a beloved and recognizable figure in the genre.