There’s no denying that Darth Vader is one of the most iconic villains in cinematic history. One thing that most should know bust some might not is that the dark Sith lord was brought to us by two different actors with James Earl Jones delivering the iconic voice we know so well, and the lesser-known David Prowse handling the costumed physical appearance.
Though most recognize Earl Jones as Vader, Prowse is certainly a beloved member of the Star Wars universe…at least when it comes to the fans anyway. When it comes to creator George Lucas and anything Lucasfilm related, however, things are not all sunshine and rainbows as you might assume.
The annual Star Wars Celebration V (C5) convention is coming up and Mr. Prowse was set to make an appearance, sign autographs, and meet his fans. Unfortunately he received a bit of bad news and shared it on his website.
It is with regret that I have been informed by my friends at C2 Ventures, Ben and Phillip, that I am not to be invited to C5 this year or any other Lucas Film associated events. After enquiring, the only thing I have been told is that I have “burnt too many bridges between Lucas Film and myself” – no other reason given.
I have also been advised by the promoter of Paris Manga in September that LFL have requested no photo opportunities with the 501 Squadron, even though I am commander in chief of the 501.
Sincere apologies to all my fans who were hoping to meet with me – I shall miss you too. As you will see from my events page I will be at many conventions all over the world so we can still keep in touch.
Now, the whole story here is unknown, but it’s hard to imagine what evil Prowse could have committed to reap such cruel punishment. Geek Twins refers back to an article that /Film wrote in which Prowse told Equity Magazine that he hadn’t received and residual payments for his work on Return of the Jedi, and that Lucasfilm told him it was because they hadn’t made any profit on that film…crazy as that sounds. Whether this is a reason for such backlash is unknown, but it is worth noting.
[Source: Blastr]
If I ever run a convention before I die, Prowse is totally invited and Lucas most certainly is not.
Comment by Slipstream — July 15, 2010 @ 2:24 pm
Obligatory pedantry: Don’t forget Sebastian Shaw who was the face of Vader at the end of Return of the Jedi.
Comment by Dominic Hamon — July 15, 2010 @ 3:41 pm
There’s a bigger story here that we simply don’t know anything about. I automatically don’t trust Lucas because he, like all corporations, follow their own corporate agenda that centers around generating and preserving profit.
With respect to everyone involved, fans included, I hope this gets settled and people can get back to treating each other fairly.
Everyone who worked on the saga deserves their share of the pie. Burning bridges or not, Prowse did his part and he kicked ass. Respect.
Comment by Devon — July 15, 2010 @ 7:04 pm
George Lucas is an ass.
Han Solo shot first.
Comment by Hyman Roth — July 15, 2010 @ 8:14 pm
Like what happened with Peter Jackson taking on New Line, I suspect something similar has happened to David Prowse. Perhaps he inquired into royalties.
Both cases just go to show how selfish and bitter the big Hollywood production companies can be, and how they treat anyone who stands up to or even questions them – with unnecessary personal discrimination, and probably damage the actor’s reputation in the process.
Comment by Haldered — July 15, 2010 @ 10:06 pm
At least Prowse didn’t crap all over a classic by making an abomination known as the prequel trilogy.
Comment by Sam — July 16, 2010 @ 11:17 am
I will always have a soft spot for David Prowse.This is because when I was 5 or 6(late 70s) he visited my school. I recall my mother telling me that Darth Vader was coming to my school in a small town in North East England. Naturally I was excited. I expected him to be dressed as Vader. Alas, he was the Green Cross Code Man – I hope no one minds this 30 second clip which shows Prowse as the Green Cross Code Man – and imagine my disappointment when he turned up dressed like that!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRUBMBi_lp4
Comment by teessidedazza — July 16, 2010 @ 11:42 am
wait a minute… “…Return of the Jedi, and that Lucasfilm told him it was because they hadn’t made any profit on that film…” I cry bulls**t
Comment by Skeptic — July 16, 2010 @ 2:04 pm
who’s Geaorge Lucas?
Comment by phil — July 17, 2010 @ 8:49 am
“..Lucasfilm told him it was because they hadn’t made any profit on that film…”
I hope the IRS isn’t reading this.
Comment by jakeZ — July 17, 2010 @ 9:00 am