David Prowse, the actor who played Darth Vader in the original ‘Star Wars’ trilogy, has passed away at the age of 85.
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According to TMZ, the news was confirmed by his agent, Thomas Bowington, who said, “It’s with great regret and heart-wrenching sadness for us and millions of fans around the world, to announce that our client Dave Prowse MBE has passed away at the age of 85.” The British actor earned his start after competing in the bodybuilding industry under the name “Jack the Ripper” and was chosen by George Lucas after seeing him in a ‘Clockwork Orange.’ Prowse said he took on the role because “Everyone remembers the villain.”
Although he fit the perfect role for one of the most iconic villains ever, his accent didn’t fit the part so it was dubbed over by James Earl Jones after post-production in 1977.
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Prowse also appeared in “The Saint,” “Doctor Who,” “The Beverly Hillbillies,” and several horror movies. He was married to Norma Scammell and they have three children together. Fans of the ‘Star Wars’ films also sent out their condolences to Prowse’s family and thanked him.
Very sad news about Dave Prowse. Please enjoy this clip of Darth Vader speaking with his original West Country accent. pic.twitter.com/FhElDkmZC6
— Tokyo Sexwhale (@tokyosexwhale) November 29, 2020
RIP Dave Prowse. He played the most iconic villain ever and was a huge part of my childhood. In the 80’s he made an appearance at our city’s department store dressed as Darth Vader and I got a signed postcard from the dark lord of the Sith himself. pic.twitter.com/66pOJ7f38H
— James Turner (@JamesTurner_42) November 29, 2020
Dave Prowse has sadly passed away at the age of 85. Prowse brilliantly brought the imposing Darth Vader to life in the original trilogy and was always such a warm presence interacting with fans over the years. May the Force be with you. pic.twitter.com/JdACrYoTov
— Star Wars Holocron (@sw_holocron) November 29, 2020
Did you know? Dave Prowse auditioned to play Darth Vader and Chewbacca in Star Wars. When asked why he chose to play Vader, Prowse said, “Everyone remembers the villain.” pic.twitter.com/PKn3H8aXQG
— Star Wars Holocron (@sw_holocron) November 29, 2020
It is with sadness that we learn of the disappearance of David Prowse, 85, who played Darth Vader in Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.
“Nobody will ever forget Vader, and it is a great honor for me to have played the ultimate screen villain of all time.” pic.twitter.com/5mVPlekKyj
— The Spaceshipper (Ex-Spaceshipsporn) 🚀 (@TheSpaceshipper) November 29, 2020