Sad news reaches us today of the passing of Michael Culver, better known in the Star Wars galaxy as the ill-fated Captain Lorth Needa from The Empire Strikes Back who met an unfortunate end at the Force-powered hand of Lord Vader. Michael was 85, and leaves behind an impressive body of work on the stage, radio, television and film.
Born on Thursday 16th June 1938 in Hampstead, London Michael was born into a theatrical family with his aunt, father, mother and brother all enjoying careers in the theater. His acting career began in 1956 in The Sleeping Prince and encompassed numerous roles on the stage which took him on tour, to the West End, and numerous performances across the UK. His radio work included fatherland with fellow Star Wars actor Anton Lesser, on television in a variety of roles from 1961 to 2013 including The Avengers, The Persuaders, Space: 1999 and The Professionals, and on the big screen starting with minor roles in 1963’s Bond epic From Russia With Love and 1965’s Thunderball, the classic Goodbye, Mr Chips and for director David Lean in A Passage To India. An expansive and impressive career, far deeper and varied than his brief visit to the galaxy far, far away showcased.
We had the good fortune to chat with Michael back in late 2022, which you can hear below.
Our condolences from the Fantha Tracks team to Michael’s family, friends and many colleagues.
