Richard LeParmentier - P 2013
Getty ImagesRichard LeParmentier, remembered for his role in the original Star Wars, died Tuesday at age 66, the Associated Press reported.
The actor appeared in films such as Superman II, Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Rollerball. But his most well-known turn was in George Lucas‘ first blockbuster sci-fi title.
In the 1977 film, LeParmentier played Admiral Motti, a self-assured Empire military leader who dismisses the chance of Rebellion attack and belittled Vader for his “sorcerer’s ways.” Motti is subsequently choked by Darth Vader, who uses the Force to keep the admiral in check.
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In a statement to the AP, LeParmentier’s family paid tribute to the Star Wars appearance.
“He absolutely loved traveling the world and meeting his friends and fellow Stars Wars fans,” the statement read. It added, in reference to an infamous Vader retort: “Every time we find someone’s lack of faith disturbing, we’ll think of him.”
Even though he ended up playing a bit role in the film, LeParmentier originally read for the role of Han Solo before being cast as Motti, noted a remembrance of the actor on the official Star Wars website.
“I thought, ‘Well, OK, it’s two scenes at least, so I’ll do that,'” LeParmentier told Star Wars Insider in 1998.
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