(TheProudRepublic.com) – Following recent events of celebrities unluckily passing away in the showbiz world, esteemed ‘The Empire Strikes Back’ British actor Michael Culver passed away on Feb. 27 at 85.
Culver’s representatives for the past decade Alliance Agents confirmed his death. Yet, according to THR, the agency did not disclose details about how he died.
Culver was known for numerous roles, including the remarkably portrayed Captain Needa in “Star Wars: Episode V—The Empire Strikes Back.”
He also interpreted the captain who faces Darth Vader’s anger, famously concluding with “Apology accepted, Captain Needa.”
Another striking role was as Major McBryde in “A Passage to India” (1984), directed by David Lean. The critically acclaimed film showcased Culver’s talent alongside industry luminaries like Peggy Ashcroft, Judy Davis, and Alec Guinness.
Culver was born in North London on June 16, 1938, and was destined for the spotlight due to his family background.
THR noted that his parents, Roland and Daphne were involved in the theater and fostered Culver’s passion for acting.
After studying at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, Culver refined his skills with the Old Vic company and appeared in West End productions. He similarly had uncredited roles in James Bond films during the 1960s.
Additionally, Culver had an outstanding TV career in the UK, where he appeared in numerous British shows. As per THR, he gained popularity through roles in series like “The Befrienders” and “Cadfael.”
Later in his career, Culver turned his attention to political activism and advocated for various social causes. He and actor Mark Rylance organized a successful campaign for a statue to honor Iraq War protester Brian Haw.
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