Actor Terence Stamp, who played villain in Superman films, dies aged 87

Washington, DC [US], August 17 : British actor Terence Stamp, best remembered for playing the iconic villain General Zod in the Superman films, has died at the age of 87, his family confirmed to The New York Times, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

They did not reveal the cause or place of death.

With striking looks and a career that spanned six decades, Stamp left a lasting mark on both British and Hollywood cinema. He first rose to fame with his role in 'Billy Budd' (1962), which earned him an Oscar nomination, and later stunned audiences with his chilling performance in William Wyler's 'The Collector' (1965), which won him Best Actor at Cannes.

However, the actor is best remembered as General Zod, the Kryptonian villain who challenged Superman in 'Superman' (1978) and 'Superman II' (1980). His commanding performance turned the character into one of the most iconic comic book villains on screen.

Also known for his striking good looks and impeccable fashion choices, Stamp became one of Britain's most glamorous stars. He and actress Julie Christie made one of the most iconic couples of the '60s, starring together in Far From the Madding Crowd (1967). He also had a high-profile romance with supermodel Jean Shrimpton and was a favourite muse of legendary photographer David Bailey.

Stamp's versatility was evident in his varied career. He played a corrupt English crook in Steven Soderbergh's 'The Limey' (1999), earned recognition as Chancellor Valorum in 'Star Wars: The Phantom Menace' (1999), and won hearts with one of his boldest and most challenging roles as Bernadette, a transgender woman, in 'The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert '(1994).

Born in London in 1938, Stamp's journey from a tugboat captain's son to an international star included collaborations with directors like Pier Paolo Pasolini, Ken Loach, and Edgar Wright. He also shared an early home with fellow actor Michael Caine, though the two never appeared in a film together.

In later years, Stamp continued to act in films like 'Valkyrie' (2008), 'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children' (2016), and 'Last Night in Soho' (2021). Alongside acting, he also published several memoirs and books, including Stamp Album and Rare Stamps: Reflections on Living, Breathing and Acting.

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