Iconic British actor David Prowse has died at the age of 85 after a brief illness according to his management company.
The Bowington Management company announced the passing of David Prowse on Sunday, 11/29. For many, the actor is widely beloved for his portrayal of Darth Vader in each of the original three Star Wars films, Episode IV: A New Hope, Episode V: Empire Strikes Back and Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. Though Lucas decided that his voice didn’t fit the part and dubbed over his lines with fellow actor James Earls Jones, David Prowse donned the classic Darth Vader suit to remarkable impact helping to solidify the character’s long lasting legacy.
David Prowse was so much more than just the man behind the mask of Darth Vader. At 6 foot 6 inches tall, he was a talented bodybuilder having won the British Weightlifting Champion several multiple times in the 1960’s, featured in many films through the years such as The Horror of Frankenstein and even a small role in Stanley Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange. He even worked as a personal trainer for another iconic character on film with Christopher Reeve’s Superman.
George Lucas himself gave a statement on David Prowse’s passing, saying…
“David brought a physicality to Darth Vader that was essential for the character,” Star Wars creator George Lucas said. “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.”
Many who worked with and became friends with David Prowse took to Twitter and other social media platforms to show their condolences. Mark Hamill who played opposite him in the original Star Wars films as Luke Skywalker had this to say…
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. #RIP pic.twitter.com/VbDrGu6iBz
— Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) November 29, 2020
It's with great regret and heart-wrenching sadness for us and million of fans around the world, to announce that our client DAVE PROWSE M.B.E. has passed away at the age of 85. #DaveProwse @starwars #DarthVader #GreenCrossCodeMan #iconic #actor #bodybuilder #MBE pic.twitter.com/dL2RmdIqg8
— Bowington Management (@BowingtonM) November 29, 2020
Lucasfilm was saddened to learn of the passing of David Prowse, who provided the commanding presence and imposing physical performance of Darth Vader for the Original Trilogy. He will be long remembered…https://t.co/U8Yua0mmoK pic.twitter.com/m2WGGlE3r1
— Star Wars (@starwars) November 29, 2020
David Prowse most recently released an autobiography titled From the Force’s Mouth in 2011. As fans everywhere mourn the passing of the iconic actor, everyone here at Comic Watch would just like to commemorate all the remarkable work Prowse gave to so many. The visible passion and incredible nuance he brought to his roles will live on in his work and fan’s hearts into the future.
Rest In Peace and May the Force be With You, David Prowse.
