Darth Vader Actor Dave Prowse Has Died (VIDEO)

Dave Prowse, the bodybuilder-turned-actor who wore the Darth Vader suit in the original trilogy of Star Wars films, has passed away at the age of 85.

Prowse made his film debut in the 1967 James Bond spoof Casino Royale playing Frankenstein’s Monster. His physique gave him the opportunity to play the role again in two Hammer horror films, 1970’s Horror Of Frankenstein and 1974’s Frankenstein and the Monster From Hell. He also appeared in A Clockwork Orange and dozens of other films and TV shows in a career that spanned over 50 years.

However, it was his role as Darth Vader in 1977 that gave him cinematic immortality, even though his face was never seen and actor James Earl Jones dubbed the character’s lines.

Prowse, however, was most proud of playing the Green Cross Code Man in a British public service campaign that promoted road safety in the UK. His work earned him an MBE.

His 6 ft., 6 in. frame made him a popular figure in the weightlifting world, and he represented England at the Commonwealth Games in the early 1960s. He also became good friends with bodybuilders Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno, who would each go on to Hollywood fame.

Prowse also served as personal trainer for Christopher Reeve as he bulked up or the role of Superman in 1978.

His other TV appearances included The Saint, Space 1999 and Doctor Who.

Prowse was a fixture at Star Wars conventions in latter years, and was a fan favorite, due to his personable nature.

A cause of death was not announced, but he had retired from public appearances due to health issues.

This interview featuring Prowse and Mark Hamill, by Bobbie Wygant of NBC affiliate KXAS in Dallas, is from 1980 and was part of the press tour for The Empire Strikes Back.

He is survived by is wife, Norma Scammell, and three children.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Prowse’s family and friends, and his millions of fans.