David Prowse, who played Darth Vader in the original “Star Wars” trilogy, passed away over the weekend. He was 85.
What happened:
Prowse passed away after a short illness, according to BBC News.
James Earl Jones voiced Darth Vader. Sebastian Shaw played Darth Vader when the helmet was removed in “Return of the Jedi.”
- Prowse acted inside the Vader costume. He was picked because of his large physique, which provided an intimidating factor to Darth Vader.
Prowse originally auditioned for Chewbacca and Darth Vader. He told NPR in 2018 that he chose Darth Vader for a specific reason:
- “Well, if you think back on all the movies that you’ve ever seen where there are goodies and baddies … you always remember the baddie.”
Reactions:
George Lucas responded to the death by honoring Prowse.
- “David brought a physicality to Darth Vader that was essential for the character. He made Vader leap off the page and on to the big screen, with an imposing stature and movement performance to match the intensity and undercurrent of Vader’s presence. David was up for anything and contributed to the success of what would become a memorable, tragic figure. May he rest in peace.”
Mark Hamill tweeted about Prowse as well.
- “So sad to hear David Prowse has passed. He was a kind man & much more than Darth Vader. Actor-Husband-Father-Member of the Order of the British Empire-3 time British Weightlifting Champion & Safety Icon the Green Cross Code Man. He loved his fans as much as they loved him.”
Anthony Daniels, who played C-3PO, also reacted to the news.
- “More sad news. Dave has gone. I don’t think 3PO ever faced Vader’s mighty presence on set, other than as a bag of bits on Chewie’s shoulders in the carbon freezer. But Dave’s iconic figure dominated the finished film in ‘77 and has done so ever since. And will continue to do so.”