21 Star Wars legends who are also accomplished authors
By Jason Ivey
16. David Prowse
Following in the footsteps of his insidious master, comes this autobiography by the Dark Lord of the Sith himself, Darth Vader — or rather the actor who portrayed him in the original Star Wars trilogy, David Prowse. Straight From the Force’s Mouth: The Autobiography of David Prowse MBE (2011) gives the life story, along with a detailed account of the actor’s experience as Star Wars imperious villain.
Prowse’s autobiography covers his early career as an accomplished bodybuilder moving onto his transition into films such as Clockwork Orange starring Malcolm McDonald. Prowse’s bodybuilding background combined with his acting experience made him well-suited to fill the menacing armor of the original Star Wars trilogy.
One of the actor’s greatest feats showcasing his physical prowess came at the end of Episode VI: Return of the Jedi when he manhandled his co-star Ian McDiarmid and tossed the emperor over the balcony after other method’s failed to work out. Prowse also wrote two previous books prior to his autobiography, they were Fitness is Fun and Play Safe with the Stars: Child’s Guide to Safety, both of which were aimed at younger readers.