British actor Terence Stamp, best known for playing the villain General Zod in “Superman II” and for his lead role in “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert,” has died at the age of 87.
On Sunday, Aug. 17, according to UK media reports, his family confirmed the news.
“He leaves behind an extraordinary body of work, both as an actor and as a writer, that will continue to touch and inspire people for years to come,” the statement read.
Stamp became famous in the 1960s and was seen as one of the style icons of that era. He first gained attention for his role in “Billy Budd” in 1962, a performance that earned him an Oscar nomination at just 24 years old.
Throughout his career, he worked with top directors such as Federico Fellini, Pier Paolo Pasolini, Ken Loach, and Steven Soderbergh.
He was known for taking on bold and unusual roles, including playing a cold-hearted villain in “Superman II” and later, a retired transgender woman in “Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.” The latter role earned him international praise for his moving performance and nominations for both a Golden Globe and a BAFTA.
Aside from film and television, Stamp was a creative artist in many ways. He appeared on stage in London and abroad, and he also wrote several books, including autobiographies, a cookbook, and a book on spirituality—reflecting his deep interest in personal growth and Eastern philosophy.
Stamp spent parts of his life living outside the UK, including in Italy and India, where he found inspiration and peace. His travels and personal journey shaped not only his writing but also his artistic choices in film.
He continued acting well into his later years, appearing in movies such as “The Limey,” “Wanted,” “Big Eyes,” “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace,” “Valkyrie,” “The Adjustment Bureau,” and “Last Night in Soho.”
His voice was also featured in animated films and video games, including “The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion” and “Halo 3.”
Details about funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
