Clive Revill, the iconic actor who originally voiced Emperor Palpatine in Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, has passed away at the age of 94. His daughter, Kate Revill, confirmed that he died on March 11, 2025, at a care facility in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, following a prolonged battle with dementia. Revill’s death has led to an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow actors, all honoring the legacy he built throughout his illustrious career.

A Stellar Career in Film and TV

Born in Wellington, New Zealand, in 1930, Clive Revill had a career that spanned more than six decades. Although he is best known for his role as the voice of Emperor Palpatine, his talents were much broader. Throughout his career, Revill worked in a variety of film and television projects, earning recognition for his versatility and captivating presence. Among his many roles, he voiced characters in Transformers: The Movie (1986), Batman: The Animated Series, and Star Trek: The Next Generation. He also appeared in The Twilight Zone, Columbo, and other beloved television series. In 1973, Revill was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for his performance in the comedy Avanti! alongside Jack Lemmon and Juliet Mills, further solidifying his status as a talented actor.

From New Zealand to London: An Extraordinary Journey

Revill’s path to stardom began in New Zealand, where he moved in the early 1950s. While in London, he had the honor of meeting acting legends Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh during their tour of New Zealand. Recognizing his potential, they encouraged him to attend the prestigious Old Vic Theatre School in England, where he honed his craft. This marked the beginning of an extraordinary acting career, with Revill soon becoming a prominent figure in both the British and American entertainment industries.

The Voice of Emperor Palpatine

Revill’s portrayal of Emperor Palpatine in The Empire Strikes Back remains one of his most memorable contributions to pop culture. In 1980, he provided the voice for the Emperor in a brief but impactful scene with Darth Vader. The character of the Emperor, who was seen only as a holographic image in the film, was given an ominous tone that Revill crafted with chilling precision. In a 2015 interview with The McDowell News, Revill explained how he came to the role. “I got a call from the director, Irvin Kershner, who I’d worked with on A Fine Madness. He needed a voice for the Emperor, and we found that the best approach was to deliver it with no emotion whatsoever,” he recalled.

Though his portrayal of Palpatine was replaced by Ian McDiarmid in the 2004 DVD re-release, Revill’s voice remains iconic in the original 1980 release. Fans still celebrate his performance at conventions, fondly remembering his haunting take on the character.

A Lasting Influence

Throughout his career, Clive Revill became a beloved figure for his dedication to his craft and the numerous characters he brought to life. Despite stepping away from acting after his final film role in The Queen of Spain (2016), where he starred alongside Penélope Cruz, his influence continues to resonate with fans and colleagues alike. He officially retired, but his impact as an actor, especially his role as Emperor Palpatine, will endure for generations.

Fellow actors and fans have shared their tributes to Revill in the wake of his passing. Actor David Pressman, who grew up next to Revill, called him “a legend” on social media, praising his kindness and storytelling ability. “Clive was always full of great stories and a true professional,” Pressman wrote, underscoring the profound influence Revill had on everyone who knew him.

Remembering Clive Revill

Clive Revill’s passing marks the end of an era, but his voice and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who admired his work. Whether in his contributions to Star Wars or his extensive TV and film roles, Revill left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Fans and colleagues alike will always remember the talented actor who brought so much to the screen, from villains to heroes, and whose performances touched the lives of many. Rest in peace, Clive Revill. You will never be forgotten.