Star Wars actor Jeremy Bulloch dies aged 75
Tributes have been paid to Jeremy Bulloch who played Boba Fett in the original Star Wars films. The actor, who also appeared in James Bond film Octopussy and featured in a number of Doctor Who episodes in the 1970s, died on Thursday aged 75.
His death followed “health complications following his many years living with Parkinson’s disease”, according to a statement on his website.
Mark Hamill, who starred as Luke Skywalker in Star Wars, labelled Bulloch as “the quintessential Englishman”.
He added: “A fine actor, delightful company & so kind to everyone lucky enough to meet or work with him.
“I will deeply miss him & am so grateful to have known him.”
According to the Star Wars website, Bulloch, of Market Harborough, Leicestershire, got his role in the Star Wars films thanks to his half-brother Robert Watts.
Watts had attempted to help Bulloch for many years and was working as an associate producer and tasked with finding someone to fit into the Boba Fett costume.
The website said: “He called his half-brother and told him that if the costume fit him, he had the role.
“When Jeremy Bulloch arrived and put on the costume, it fit him like a glove.
“George Lucas saw Bulloch as Boba and said, ‘You look fantastic.’, and thus, an iconic character of the saga was born.”
Billy Dee Williams, who starred as Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars films, tweeted: “Today we lost the best bounty hunter in the galaxy. RIP Jeremy Bulloch.”
Daniel Logan, who played a young Boba Fett in Star Wars: Attack Of The Clones, paid tribute to Bulloch on Instagram.
He wrote: “RIP legend I’ll never forget all you’ve taught me!!
“I’ll love you forever!! Conventions won’t be the same without you may the force be with you always.”
The official Twitter account for the Star Wars franchise also paid tribute to Bulloch.
“Jeremy Bulloch, whose unforgettable performance as notorious bounty hunter Boba Fett has captivated audiences since he first appeared in 1980’s Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, has sadly passed away,” it said.
“He will be remembered not only for his iconic portrayal of the legendary character, but also for his warmth and generous spirit which have become an enduring part of his rich legacy.”
He is survived by his wife, three sons and 10 grandchildren.
Published: by Radio NewsHub