David Prowse, who was widely known as Darth Evader in the original Star Wars series, has passed away at the age of 85.

The British actor was reportedly nicknamed ‘Darth Farmer’ by his late Star Wars co-star Carrie Fisher due to his distinct accent. He played the role due to his impressive physique and his history as a weightlifter.

His agent Thomas Bowington confirmed the news this morning.

“May the force be with him, always!” he wrote.

“Though famous for playing many monsters – for myself, and all who knew Dave and worked with him, he was a hero in our lives.”

He described the much-loved actor’s passing as “a truly and deeply heart-wrenching loss for us and millions of fans all over the world”.

It’s with great regret and heart-wrenching sadness for us and million of fans around the world, to announce that our client DAVE PROWSE M.B.E. has passed away at the age of 85. #DaveProwse @starwars #DarthVader #GreenCrossCodeMan #iconic #actor #bodybuilder #MBE pic.twitter.com/dL2RmdIqg8

— Bowington Management (@BowingtonM) November 29, 2020

David Prowse remained a prominent face on UK television. He played roles in Doctor Who in 1972, The Two Ronnies, The Kenneth Williams Show, and The Morecambe & Wise Show. He was also starred in the series Mission Backup Earth and Southern Troopers.