21 Star Wars Actors We've Lost Over the Years

Ever since its initial movie release back in 1977, the Star Wars series has captured the hearts of numerous fans by revolutionizing the filmmaking approach in Hollywood. In fact, this groundbreaking influence is still being felt today, with new Star Wars films continuing to be produced – the most recent one set for release in 2023. Over the span of four decades, this franchise has been evolving and growing.

Despite the majority of the cast being replaced in the recent trilogy (episodes VII, VIII, IX) released in 2015, the actors who brought our cherished characters to life in the original trilogy (episodes IV, V, and VI) continue to be talked about and fondly remembered. Many of these talented individuals have sadly passed on, leaving behind a lasting legacy that will remain a topic of conversation for generations. Here is an alphabetical list of the Star Wars actors who have passed away:

1. David Prowse (Darth Vader)
2. Peter Cushing (Grand Moff Tarkin and Governor Tarkin)
3. Kenny Baker (R2-D2)
4. Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia Organa)
5. Forrest Whitaker (Jedi Master Luminara Unduli, Asajj Ventress, and Mace Windu in Star Wars: The Clone Wars)
6. Phil Brown (Gonk Droid)
7. Denis Lawson (Wedge Antilles)
8. Jeremy Bulloch (Boba Fett)
9. John Sullivan (Mon Calamari Officer)
10. Jack Purvis (Wicket the Ewok, Jabba’s Guard, and Tauntaun Rider)
11. David Tomblin (Ewok Scout)

*Note from the Editor: We frequently update this article to provide you with the most recent updates on both the present and past members of the Star Wars series cast.*

1. Alec Guinness (Obi-Wan-Kenobi)

Sir Alec Guinness’ career didn’t solely take off with his portrayal of Obi-Wan-Kenobi in Star Wars (1977), but he had previously been recognized for his role in The Lavender Hill Mob, earning him his first Academy Award nomination. Interestingly, this was the sole acting nomination that the entire Star Wars trilogy received for his best supporting performance.

In the early 2000s, at the age of 86, Guinness received a diagnosis of prostate cancer. Despite his valiant struggle, he passed away six months later after fighting this illness.

2. Alex McCrindle (General Jan Dodonna)

Initially gaining fame through his Star Wars character, it was actually in 1951 that Alex began his career with his debut US film, titled “The House in the Square.” He followed this role with five more movies before moving onto television acting. Post his work on Episode IV, he returned to TV acting once again.

He passed on the 20th of April 1990 in a hospital in London.

3. Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia)

Regardless of whether you’ve seen any Star Wars films or not, Carrie Fisher is undoubtedly recognized by many. For us devoted fans, Princess Leia symbolized and continues to embody hope, equality, and feminism. She was more than just a princess; she was also a general, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity while being a formidable fighter who played a crucial role in the rebels’ triumph over the empire.

She was only 60 years old when she passed in 2016 due to cardiac arrest in an airplane.

4. Christopher Lee (Count Dooku)

Christopher Lee excelled as an antagonist across various realms, not just through his portrayal of Count Dooku, the Sith Lord in Star Wars, but also as Saruman in The Lord of the Rings Trilogy. His talent was widely admired within Fantasy and Science Fiction genres, and he provided exceptional voice-overs for films and video games too.

Regrettably, it was time to bid farewell as the actor, at ninety-three, passed away from a heart attack. Rest assured, throughout his life, he generously poured out his acting talents for our enjoyment.

5. Ed Asner (Jabba The Hutt)

In the 1996 radio version of Episode VI, Ed Asner lent his voice to the character Jabba the Hutt. Although his part was relatively small, he left an indelible mark as the actor who breathed life into this iconic character. Moreover, Asner also voiced a Jedi master in two Star Wars video games.

Asner died in 2021, aged 91 in his home in Los Angeles of natural causes.

6. Felix Silla (Ewok)

It’s a must to adore Ewoks; they’re adorable, soft, and petite, yet they played a significant role in helping the Rebels overcome the Empire. You might not recognize Felix Silla when searching for him in the film, but he was indeed there, delivering an impressive performance as the hang-gliding Ewok.

Born back in 1937, he passed away not too long ago, in 2021. His character as the agile, tiny, warrior-like Ewok fit him perfectly, considering his background as a stuntman and a trained circus artist.

7. Gerald Home (Tessek)

Known primarily for his performances in Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi, he portrayed both Tessek and Captain Verrack, though these roles went unacknowledged in the credits. Significant parts that contributed to his career growth include The Undertaker (2010) and Chatroom (2010).

Much like Felix Silla, he died in 2021 as a 70-year-old.

8. Harry Fielder (Corporal Grenwick)

Despite often appearing in unrecognized or smaller roles, Harry Fielder has been part of significant film productions such as Superman, Doctor Who, 101 Dalmatians, and notably, Star Wars: Episode IV.

In 2021, at the ripe age of 80, Fielder demonstrated that one doesn’t necessarily need grand accomplishments to truly succeed.

9. Jack Purvis (Chief Jawa, Chief Ugnaught, Teebo the Ewok)

In each episode of the initial trilogy, Purvis made an appearance, even though his roles were relatively small. However, it’s worth noting that he was part of all three episodes from the most cherished fan-favorite trilogy. Did you know that Purvis lends his voice to Bashful in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs?

Purvis passed away in 1997, fourteen years after episode VI was released.

10. John Hollis (Lobot)

John Hollis experienced nothing less than a spectacular career. He portrayed Lobot in Star Wars Episode V, made appearances in the ’80s films Flash Gordon and the initial two Superman movies, and is best remembered for his role as Ernst Stavro in James Bond: For Your Eyes Only.

Hollis died in 2005 in London, aged 77 London, England.

11. Jason Wingreen (Boba Fett)

In 2015, at the age of 95, the galaxy’s most renowned bounty hunter took his last breath. Despite the part not necessitating much dialogue, his profound voice resonated with fans, making them adore the character even more whenever he spoke.

He spent his entire life in New York City until he passed away at the grand old age of 95, which occurred in Los Angeles, California, back in 2015.

12. Kenny Baker (R2-D2)

In case you’ve ever pondered over how Baker managed to squeeze into the R2-D2 suit given his height of just 3 feet 8 inches, it becomes clear why he was perfect for the job. He performed in both the original and prequel trilogies wearing that suit.

It’s noteworthy to add that he portrayed both an Ewok character and Paploo too. Regrettably, this talented individual passed away in 2008 at the venerable age of 81. The circumstances surrounding his passing are still unknown.

13. Phil Brown (Uncle Owen)

George Lucas selected Phill Brown for the part of Uncle Owen due to his robust American accent. Similarly to Harry Fielder, Brown had previously acted in Superman, although his character’s appearance went uncredited.

The actor died on February 6th, 2006 at the age of 89 in Los Angeles, California.

14. Peter Cushing (Grand Moff Tarkin)

Before his debut in Star Wars: Episode IV, he had already starred in numerous horror films. His standout performance was as Victor Frankenstein in “The Curse of Frankenstein,” a film released in 1957.

On August 11th, 1994, the person responsible for designing the Death Star, an actor, passed away at the age of 81.

15. Phil Eason (Yaddle)

In the opening act of the Star Wars prequels, I stepped into the role of Yaddle, yet it wasn’t me who embodied the wise Jedi. Instead, I was the skilled artist behind the scenes, manipulating the character to bring her to life on screen.

He as well as many others, died in 2021 at the young age of 60, much like Carrie Fisher.

16. Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca)

In episode VII, which was released in 2015, the actor who initially portrayed the Wookiee (Chewbacca) had the opportunity to witness some of the new fame that the cast of the third trilogy would enjoy since he was part of it.

He wouldn’t make it for the VIII episode since he died on April 30th, 2019 at the age of 74.

17. Ralph Mcquarrie (rebel General Pharl McQuarrie)

In a more casual and straightforward manner, it could be said that McQuarrie was a concept artist who appeared in Star Wars Episode V in a brief, on-screen role. This is why his name can be rearranged as “Pharl.

In 2012, the renowned artist and actor passed away at the ripe age of 82. Among his notable works are Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home and E.T.

18. Shelagh Fraser (Aunt Beru)

Aunt Beru, being Luke Skywalker’s aunt, can be compared to Uncle Ben in terms of their family relationship. The actress portraying Aunt Beru gained recognition through her performance in the television series “A Family at War.

Shelagh died 6 years before Brown back in the year 2000 as a 79-year-old.

19. Sebastian Shaw (Darth Vader)

Did you realize that Shaws’ family found out he played Darth Vader only after the movie was released? The reason for this secret was to create maximum dramatic impact when his character’s reveal occurred at the end of Return of the Jedi, and they certainly achieved that effect.

On December 23rd, 1994, the actor breathed his last at the age of 89. It’s been quite some time since then, yet his portrayal as a captivating villain continues to be cherished by many.

20. Trisha Noble (Jopbal Naberrie)

Trisha Noble, although she had only a small part in the Star Wars prequels, it was still delightful to watch Padme’s mother appear on-screen. Interestingly, she received an award back in 1962, but not for acting; rather, she won a Logie award as the top female singer.

In 2021, the actress passed away at the ripe age of 76, fifteen years following her retirement from both her singing and acting professions.

21. William Hootkins (Jek Porkins)

The pioneering Death Star rebels’ pilot, Jek Porkins, who tragically lost his life during the attack, will undoubtedly be honored for many years ahead. Born in 1948, he passed away in 2005 at the age of 57.

This version maintains the original meaning and provides a more conversational tone while preserving the information in an engaging manner.

I may have had supporting roles in films like Batman, Superman, and Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark, but if you’ve come this far and are still reading, chances are you recall me best from my time in Star Wars.

22. Ray Stevenson (Gar Saxon)

Ray Stevenson, born in 1964 and known for voicing Gar Saxon in “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” and “Star Wars: Rebels,” will always be remembered for his contributions to the Star Wars universe. Tragically, Stevenson passed away on May 21, 2023, at age 58 during filming of Cassino in Ischia, Italy. This sad news came only four days before what would have been his 59th birthday.

2025-05-14 20:34

21 Star Wars Actors We’ve Lost Over the Years