Richard LeParmentier, an actor best known for his role as Admiral Motti in Star Wars, passed away yesterday while visiting his family in Austin. He was 66.
The character was choked by Darth Vader in the 1977 classic, inspiring the Vadering meme that went viral as recently as this month.
No cause of death has been provided.
In a statement, children Rhiannon, Stephanie and Tyrone LeParmentier said:
“At age 66, Richard Le Parmentier is one with the Force. We’re deeply grateful to the many devoted fans who have posted personal remembrances of our dad as a warm, genuine person with an unparalleled joie de vivre and gift for friendship (not to mention a mean petanque player).” Petanque is a European game, like bocce ball.
“To his fans and friends, his lines were the ultimate power in the universe. He absolutely loved travelling the world and meeting his friends and fellow Star Wars fan[s].”
LeParmentier appeared in over 50 films and TV programs, including Octopussy, Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Superman II.
Our thoughts go out to his loved ones.