One of the most imposing characters of all-time. The man behind Darth Vader died today at the age of 85. David Prowse was a former bodybuilder from Bristol. He was most well known for playing Darth Vader in the original trilogy of Star Wars. His career spanned 50 years. That role of Vader was one for a lifetime though. The massive 6’6 actor brought a presence to the character that no one else likely could have. Even if his West Country accent wasn’t used in the final cut, half of Darth Vader’s evil and menace was in the physical movements.
Prowse was also well known in bodybuilding competitions in the 60’s. He competed at the Commonwealth Games and represented England against the likes of Lou Ferrigno and Arnold Schwarzenegger. He was also the personal trainer for Christopher Reeve while he prepared for the physical transformation into Superman.
In addition to Star Wars, Prowse was well known for his roles in the James Bond spoof Casino Royale, the Hammer Horror films Horror Of Frankenstein and Frankenstein and the Monster From Hell.
Prowse initially auditioned for both the roles of Darth Vader and Chewbacca. He chose Darth Vader for a simple, yet poignant reason.
You always remember the bad guys.
David Prowse
In his later career, he became a force on the fan convention circuit. But after a falling-out with George Lucas, he was banned from events in 2010. A sad end to a partnership that created a lifetime of memories.
Prowse was known to all as a loving father, husband, and grandfather. We at That Hashtag Show send our condolences to his family.
Make sure to give those original trilogy movies a watch and remember the man behind Darth Vader.
Source: BBC
