10 Star Wars Actors Who Sadly Died

The Star Wars universe has captivated audiences for decades, thanks to its unforgettable characters and the talented actors who brought them to life. 

Unfortunately, some of these beloved performers are no longer with us, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire fans around the world. 

Here are ten Star Wars actors who have sadly passed away but whose contributions to the galaxy far, far away will never be forgotten.

1. Carrie Fisher (1956–2016) – Princess Leia Organa

Carrie Fisher will forever be remembered as the fearless and iconic Princess Leia Organa. From her sharp wit to her unwavering determination, Fisher’s portrayal made Leia a symbol of strength and hope. 

Fisher brought her own personality to the role, cementing Leia as one of the most influential characters in cinematic history.

Her sudden passing on December 27, 2016, at the age of 60, shocked the world. Fans mourned not just the loss of a remarkable actress but also the loss of someone who had openly shared her struggles with mental health, becoming a beacon of inspiration for many.

2. Peter Mayhew (1944–2019) – Chewbacca

Standing at an impressive 7 feet 3 inches tall, Peter Mayhew gave life to Chewbacca, the lovable Wookiee co-pilot of the Millennium Falcon. Through his expressive body language and iconic growls, Mayhew turned Chewbacca into more than just a sidekick—he became family to fans.

Mayhew passed away on April 30, 2019, at the age of 74. His gentle nature off-screen mirrored the kindness Chewbacca showed on-screen, and his portrayal remains a cornerstone of the Star Wars saga.

3. Alec Guinness (1914–2000) – Obi-Wan Kenobi

An accomplished actor before Star Wars, Alec Guinness brought gravitas to the role of Obi-Wan Kenobi in the original trilogy. His performance as the wise and self-sacrificing Jedi Master added a sense of depth and seriousness to the story, making Obi-Wan one of the most beloved characters in the franchise.

Guinness passed away on August 5, 2000, at the age of 86. While his relationship with Star Wars was complex—he reportedly had mixed feelings about the series—his contribution to the galaxy far, far away is immeasurable.

4. Kenny Baker (1934–2016) – R2-D2

Behind the beeps and boops of R2-D2 was Kenny Baker, who operated and inhabited the iconic astromech droid. Baker’s work brought personality to the lovable droid, making R2-D2 a key part of the Star Wars legacy.

Baker passed away on August 13, 2016, at the age of 81. Despite the challenges of working inside the R2-D2 suit, Baker’s performance helped make the droid one of the most cherished characters in the franchise.

5. James Earl Jones (1931–2024) – Voice of Darth Vader

James Earl Jones provided the unmistakable voice of Darth Vader, turning the Sith Lord into one of the most intimidating and iconic villains in cinematic history. His deep, resonant voice gave Vader a chilling presence that left a lasting impression on audiences.

Jones passed away on September 9, 2024, at the age of 93. His powerful performances extended beyond Star Wars, but his work as Darth Vader remains one of the greatest voice-acting achievements of all time.

6. David Prowse (1935–2020) – Darth Vader (Body)

David Prowse was the towering physical presence behind Darth Vader in the original trilogy. At 6 feet 6 inches tall, Prowse embodied the Sith Lord’s menacing figure while James Earl Jones provided the voice. 

Though his face was never shown on screen, Prowse’s performance helped cement Vader as one of the greatest villains of all time.

Prowse passed away on November 28, 2020, at the age of 85, due to complications from COVID-19.

7. Phil Brown (1916–2006) – Uncle Owen Lars

Phil Brown brought warmth and a sense of grounded reality to the role of Owen Lars, Luke Skywalker’s Uncle. Though his screen time in A New Hope was limited, his role as a protective guardian left a lasting impression on fans.

Brown passed away on February 9, 2006, at the age of 89. His work added depth to the Skywalker family dynamic, highlighting the struggles of those living under the shadow of the Empire.

8. Sir Christopher Lee (1922–2015) – Count Dooku

Christopher Lee, already a screen legend, stepped into the Star Wars universe as the regal and calculating Sith Lord Count Dooku in Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith. Lee’s commanding presence and Shakespearean delivery made Dooku a memorable addition to the saga.

Lee passed away on June 7, 2015, at the age of 93. His illustrious career spanned decades, but his portrayal of Count Dooku remains a standout for Star Wars fans.

9. Jack Purvis (1937–1997) – Multiple Roles

Jack Purvis was a versatile actor who appeared in multiple roles throughout the original trilogy. He played Chief Jawa in A New Hope, Teebo the Ewok in Return of the Jedi, and one of the Ugnaughts in The Empire Strikes Back. 

Though his roles were often behind masks or costumes, his performances added character to these iconic creatures.

Purvis passed away on November 21, 1997, at the age of 60.

His ability to infuse life into even the most hidden roles left a lasting mark on Star Wars fans and continues to be celebrated by those who cherish the original trilogy.

10. Sebastian Shaw (1904–1994) – Anakin Skywalker (Original Trilogy)

Sebastian Shaw played a pivotal role as the redeemed Anakin Skywalker in Return of the Jedi. His face was revealed during the emotional scene where Luke removes Vader’s helmet, giving fans a glimpse of the man behind the mask. Shaw also portrayed Anakin’s Force ghost in the original trilogy.

Shaw passed away on December 23, 1994, at the age of 89.

His portrayal brought a poignant humanity to Darth Vader’s arc, providing a memorable and heartfelt conclusion to the character’s journey.