The most iconic movie villain of all time is a highly debated topic. But there is one villain who typically is at the top of that list, and has become the litmus test for movie villains. With a massive presence, hulking demeanor, and callous manner, Darth Vader was terrifying and menacing on the silver screen. And, while he was voiced by the legendary James Earl Jones, another man played under the mask for the original trilogy of Star Wars films. David Prowse, a British actor and accomplished body builder, wore the helmet and cape throughout Episodes 4, 5 & 6, creating a towering presence that intimidated the heroes and the fans watching. But now, tragically, after battling dementia and prostate cancer, Prowse has passed away at the age of 85.
According to the Washington Post, Prowse’s agent, Thomas Bowington, announced his passing from an undisclosed illness that David had been fighting for a short time. David announced in 2014 his fight with dementia following an earlier bout with cancer.
David Prowse, known for playing the physique of Darth Vader in the Star Wars original trilogy, has sadly passed away at the age of 85. pic.twitter.com/9oXH9SjTNi
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) November 29, 2020
Born on July 1st, 1935, David was the son of a sheet metal worker and a stay at home mom. After his father passed due to surgery complications in 1940, his mother turned their home into a lodge to make ends meet. Prowse focused on sports, becoming an exceptional rugby player and track and field star by the age of 12. However, his rugby dreams were dashed after an unknown injury caused constant swelling of his knee. After spending nearly a year with his knee in a splint and in a hospital bed, David turned to swimming to fight the muscular atrophy until he became enamored with French body builder, Robert Duranton, and vowed to have that physique.
This led to a successful bodybuilding and weightlifting career, although he was overlooked for the British Olympic team. But, his work on his physique did not go unnoticed to others, as he caught the eye of an advertising agency and got his first on screen work for a washer and dryer ad. This led to many bit parts here and there, including a short role as a bodyguard in A Clockwork Orange. David met George Lucas at the age of 40, and was offered one of two roles in the upcoming Star Wars: A New Hope. He could have either played Chewbacca, or Darth Vader. Afraid of filming in the summer heat inside of a heavy, furry costume, Prowse chose the latter.
David played Vader for just 12 minutes on screen, but it was enough to make his presence known and begin a terrifying legacy. However, it was not without controversy. Prowse was told that he was Vader, unaware that James Earl Jones would be brought in to redub his voice and that Sebastian Shaw would be brought in for the face reveal at the end of Return of the Jedi. Top that with a Daily Mail reporter setting up Prowse to make it look like he spoiled the final film in an article, and David was ostracized from the Star Wars community for years.
David Prowse was very proud of his work under the black helmet, noting that without the ability to facially emote, he focused on his mannerisms and walks to make the character menacing and enforce his presence. His size and attention to those details really did help bring Vader to life. Rest in peace, Lord Vader, and may the Force be with you, always.
What is your favorite Darth Vader moment from the original trilogy? Let us know in the comments below!