The Bristolian, Darth Vader actor Dave Prowse (85) dies

Dave Prowse a former bodybuilder representing England at the Commonwealth Games in 1960s, and who was also given an MBE for his long-running role as the Green Cross Code Man in 1975 and his portrayal in the original Star Wars trilogy has died aged 85. Although brought  up in Bristol, he spent his later years living in Croydon, “a loving husband, father and grandfather”.

Dressed in a distinctive green and white superhero suit, he became the face of British road safety for more than a decade known for his catchphrase “Stop, Look and Listen”. His autobiography Straight from the Force’s Mouth was published in 2011.

Spanning 50 years of acting his role as the Sith Lord in Stars Wars brought him international fame.

Prowse made his film debut in 1967 James Bond spoof Casino Royale playing Frankenstein and the Monster from hell.

 

Director George Lucas starred him in the 1971 Clockwork Orange, in which he played a bodyguard.