R2-D2 first appeared in Star Wars in 1977 as the loyal astromech droid paired with C-3PO, and his beeps, whistles and screams were created from electronic sounds and processed vocal effects. This particular high scream became one of his most copied reactions because it needs no translation. Online, editors pair it with other Star Wars moments like the Darth Vader no scream, and reuse it in memes, remixes and short videos whenever a character needs an instant, exaggerated panic reaction that viewers understand immediately.