Tributes to Harborough-born Star Wars actor and Hollywood star Jeremy Bulloch

A Star Wars actor born in Market Harborough has died aged 75.

Tributes are pouring in today for Hollywood star Jeremy Bulloch as he was hailed as “the quintessential English gentleman”.

Jeremy, who came from Market Harborough, famously played bounty hunter Boba Fett in the original iconic Star Wars trilogy.

Also a gifted footballer and cricketer, he passed away yesterday (Thursday) from health complications, having battled Parkinson’s disease for many years.

Film director and producer George Lucas, who created the Star Wars phenomenon, has lauded Jeremy as a “true gentleman”.

Billy Dee Williams, who starred alongside Jeremy as Lando Calrissian in the movies, said: “Today we lost the best bounty hunter in the galaxy.”

Mark Hamill, better known as Luke Skywalker, saluted Jeremy as the “quintessential English gentleman, a fine actor, delightful company and so kind to everyone lucky enough to meet or work with him.

“I will deeply miss him and am so grateful to have known him.”

Bulloch starred in The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi as well as a string of leading British TV programmes such as Doctor Who, Crown Court and Sloggers.

Jeremy, who actively supported top charities such as London’s Great Ormond Street Hospital, also appeared in high-profile James Bond smash-hits For Your Eyes Only and Octopussy.

Bulloch is survived by his wife Maureen, their three sons and 10 grandchildren.

The official Twitter account for the Star Wars franchise also paid tribute to Bulloch.

“Jeremy Bulloch, whose unforgettable performance as notorious bounty hunter Boba Fett has captivated audiences since he first appeared in 1980’s Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, has sadly passed away,” it said.

“He will be remembered not only for his iconic portrayal of the legendary character, but also for his warmth and generous spirit which have become an enduring part of his rich legacy.”

Jeremy died at south London's Tooting's St George's Hospital.

A poignant statement on the brilliant actor’s personal website today reads:

“Jeremy died peacefully on 17th December 2020 following health complications, including several years living with Parkinson's disease.

“He spent his final weeks in the wonderful care of staff at St George's Hospital in Tooting, close to the house where he and his wife Maureen had lived together for more than 50 years.

“Maureen and two of his sons, Jamie and Robbie, were with him during his final days.

“Jeremy had a long and happy life as an actor and was best known for his roles in the films Summer Holiday, Star Wars and James Bond; TV series the Newcomers, Doctor Who, Agony and Robin of Sherwood, and several West End theatre productions.

“Away from the screen Jeremy was a talented footballer and cricketer.

“He also supported a number of charities, including Great Ormond Street Hospital - who saved his granddaughter's life. “He was devoted to his wife, three sons and 10 grandchildren, who all love him dearly and will miss him terribly.”