Star Wars and James Bond actor Michael Culver dies at 85.

In the iconic year 1980 Star Wars In the movie “The Empire Strikes Back,” he played Captain Loth Nida, who died at the hands of the evil Darth Vader.

Described by his agent as a “classic British actor”, he also had two smaller roles in the film. James Bond Film and later life as a passionate political activist.

Mr. Culver died at his home on February 27, his agency announced today.

The actor’s agent, Thomas Bowington, paid tribute to him, telling Sky News: “The role in Star Wars was one of the smallest roles he ever played, but it became the most important role of his life. one.

“He was part of the backbone of the country, he wasn’t a star like Michael Caine but he was always brilliant in everything he did.

“He always gave a great performance. He was one of those classic British character actors who could play any role.

“He was really old-school, always on time, always engaged, always ready. A total professional. The drama was always on stage and on screen.”

Mr. Bovington also spoke of Mr. Culver’s passion for politics, saying that had he not started out in acting, influenced by his father, late stage actor Ronald Culver, he might have ended up as a politician. Home.

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In addition to “Star Wars,” Mr. Culver also played roles in two James Bond films, “From Russia with Love” and “Thunderball.”

In the final scene of “From Russia with Love,” the second James Bond film, Mr. Culver rode a cable car nearby while Sean Connery and Daniela Bianchi kissed.

Mr Culver also appeared in an episode of the ITV series Sherlock Holmes, the 1984 film adaptation of EM Forster’s A Passage to India, and the 1970s television series “Persuasion,” based on the Jane Austen novel.

His career also included numerous roles in plays.

Alliance Agents said in a statement: “It has been a privilege to represent Michael and take him to some of the best Star Wars events in the UK and Europe over the past decade.

“The real highlight was taking Michael to the gala in Chicago in 2019. When he saw nearly 200 people lining up to see him, he was speechless.

“Just three weeks ago we worked with Michael on his last home signing with our friends at Elite Signatures.

“We miss him.”