Like R2-D2, Chopper is one of the most distinguished droids in Star Wars. Besides how he aids the Rebels, Chop has a unique personality and speaking ability. If we listen carefully, we can even hear him speaking English.
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Chopper Speaking English
In this particular scene, we can hear Chopper speaking in what is very close to English. Hera’s response helps us figure it out. We get a sense that Chopper says, “Did you go through my stuff?” and “What? Oh.” And, we may be able to distinguish other comments, including some possible expletives and other surly remarks.
Fans have commented on this scene and indicated that Dave Filoni is doing the speaking through filters and how Chopper calls Hera “Mom.” According to this compilation of Chopper’s dialogue, he says much more in English too. Although the below examples are only guesses, they seem to be on target.
From Choptalk # 1, Chopper appears to say, “Wow! Someone appreciates me.” Choptalk # 3 contains a clear “Ezra, Look!”, and in #5 he sarcastically says to the droid AP-5, “And now you’ve got free will.” Chopper seems to have an extensive English vocabulary that adds to his brusk personality.
Yet, is Chopper just mimicking English and not really speaking it? These fans seem divided, with some specifying that he speaks binary like other astromechs while others indicate his English speaking could derive from how Hera repaired him. It could also be a purposeful aspect of the series that makes it more interesting.
As this article captures, we don’t have an official in-universe explanation for Chopper’s English-sounding dialogue. However, based on listening to it and how other characters respond, it seems like Chop is indeed speaking English. He seems to be among the ranks of remarkable droids like R-2.
Chopper in Rebels
Fans of Rebels know that Chopper has a sharp attitude and quick wit. Officially known as C1-10P, Chop is “a masculine” astromech droid and a central member of the Ghost crew. His “cantankerous” personality arises from his “old age and lack of regular maintenance,” which adds a unique twist to the series.
The Ghost team regards him as one of their own and treats him as if he were human. He is best known for being Hera’s close companion after she found him damaged when his Y-wing was shot down.Once Hera acquired a modified VCX-100 light freighter, redubbed the Ghost, Chopper became in charge of maintaining the ship.
Chopper earned his spot by not only keeping the Ghost flying but also by decoding Imperial messages and blasting at TIE fighters. “Even when he’s disgruntled,” which happens often, Chopper shows “heart and loyalty” to his fellow crew members.
Some articles indicate how Chop is “viciously loyal” and extremely protective of the Ghost crew. Chopper also has other distinguishing attributes, including his equipment like a holoprojector, buzz saw, and rocket booster. He is also the lone member of the crew who can interact with the Ghost’s computer and is more independently minded than other droids, even R2.
Through the series, Chop emerges as a key Rebel on the verge of humanoid existence. Chopper’s witty dialogue especially contributes to his human-like qualities. We could say that Chopper is actually speaking English.
Chopper Is Speaking English
That Chopper actually speaks English coincides with his character perfectly. As a smart, witty, and irritable droid, speaking English helps complement his personality and the components of the show.