Michael Culver, an esteemed British actor, passed away on Feb. 27 at the age of 85, The Hollywood Reporter (THR) reported.
Alliance Agents, who represented him for the last ten years, confirmed his passing. The agency did not share details about his death, according to THR. Culver was known for many roles, but his most famous was as Captain Needa in “Star Wars: Episode V — The Empire Strikes Back.” He played the captain who disappoints Darth Vader and faces consequences, famously ending with “Apology accepted, Captain Needa.”
Another standout role of Culver’s was as Major McBryde in “A Passage to India” (1984), directed by David Lean, the outlet reported. The critically acclaimed film saw Culver acting alongside industry legends such as Peggy Ashcroft, Judy Davis, and Alec Guinness. (RELATED: ‘Star Wars’ And ‘Harry Potter’ Actor Dies At 56 After Collapsing Suddenly: REPORT)
Star Wars actor, Michael Culver, has died aged 85. https://t.co/8FCx5UhJEc pic.twitter.com/AKHvBWEqhG
— Sky News (@SkyNews) March 13, 2024
Born in North London on June 16, 1938, Culver was destined for the stage and screen due to his family background. His parents, Roland, a stage actor, and Daphne, a casting director, nurtured his passion for acting, THR stated. After studying at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, Culver honed his craft with the Old Vic company and eventually made appearances in West End productions and uncredited roles in James Bond films during the 1960s.
Culver had an impressive TV career in the UK, appearing in many British shows over the years. He became popular with viewers through his roles in shows like “The Befrienders” and “Cadfael,” according to THR. In the latter part of his career, Culver shifted his focus towards political activism and advocated for several social causes. He and actor Mark Rylance led a successful campaign for a statue to honor Iraq War protester Brian Haw.