Original “Star Wars” Darth Vader Actor David Prowse has Passed Away

David Prowse has passed away at the age of 85. He played the role of Darth Vader in the original “Star Wars” trilogy, wearing the iconic suit. His lines would later be dubbed over by James Earl Jones.

Bowington Management made the announcement of the 6 foot 7 actor’s passing at the age of 85.

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

Prowse initially asked to audition for the roles of Darth Vader and Chewbacca, but ended up choosing to play Luke’s father. “You always remember the bad guys,” he said.

He was a body builder who was once good friends with Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno during his days as a weightlifter.

Mark Hamill tweeted his condolences earlier today:

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 (@MarkHamill) November 29, 2020

We’ve lost a huge part of the “Star Wars” fandom today and he will certainly be missed. Our hearts go out to his friends and family at this time.