With the teaser trailer for Star Wars VII currently on the web, we can’t help but feel overwhelmed and excited. But the ending of the teaser made us kind of sentimental. You know… nostalgic. We all know actors from the original trilogy will return yet we still have no idea what role will they have in the overall plot. Will they appear in one act of the movie and then leave the rest in the hands of the newcomers?Or maybe they will serve as some kind of guides for the new generation, those who just now are getting into Star Wars. Either way, it wouldn’t be the Star Wars we know and love without Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher. Yet ,for some, the centerpiece of the trilogy weren’t its heroes but the heavy breather himself, Darth Vader. He is one of the main reasons why this franchise is what it is today. His menacing appearance, brooding attitude and masterful use of the Force made him a formidable foe for our good guys. David Prowse, the man who filled the suit of this iconic villain would have liked to take part in the new installment but sadly isn’t possible due to recent health problems.
The actor shared in an interview with the Daily Mirror that he has been diagnosed with dementia this summer and his involvement in the movie would prove problematic. Even as a cameo, the actor didn’t think he could manage ” Now I would probably forget my lines. But it wouldn’t matter what it was, I would have loved to have done something in it – even if it was just a cameo.” Prowse’s condition is an issue not just for himself but for his loved ones as well. The Star Wars actor said he remembers moments in his life such as meeting Muhammad Ali and the Queen but the details elude him.” I’ve never worried about it. It’s other people who noticed it… my wife has probably noticed it more than me.” Even if Darth Vader died in Return of the Jedi, a cameo of sorts would have possibly fit in the movie. Maybe a flashback ?
While David Prowse was the one who weared the cape in key moments of the movie, his voice was over- dubbed by James Earl Jones and during the fight scenes, British Olympic swordsman Bob Anderson took over. Indeed Star Wars wouldn’t be where it is today without David Prowse nor Darth Vader.His condition hasn’t stopped the actor ,though, as Prowse is reminding people of road safety through his persona Green Cross Code Man. Star Wars: The Force Awakens will premiere December 15 2015.