Key points
- Famed for General Zod role in Superman films
- Oscar-nominated for debut in Billy Budd
- Took spiritual break before major comeback in 1976
ISLAMABAD: Acclaimed English actor Terence Stamp, best known for portraying General Zod in the original Superman films, has died aged 87, his family confirmed on Sunday.
With a career spanning six decades, the Oscar-nominated actor starred in notable films such as Far From the Madding Crowd, Valkyrie, and The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. His family said, “He leaves behind an extraordinary body of work, both as an actor and a writer that will continue to touch people for years to come.”
BREAKING: British actor Terence Stamp – who famously played General Zod in Superman and Superman II – has died at the age of 87https://t.co/MaQPYrCAds
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Born in Stepney, east London, in 1938, Stamp studied drama after a stint in advertising. He rose to fame in 1962 with Billy Budd, earning an Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe. He became known for his striking looks and memorable roles as villains in The Collector and Superman II, according to the BBC.
In the 1960s, he dated actress Julie Christie and model Jean Shrimpton. His relationship with Christie is widely believed to have inspired the Kinks’ line “Terry meets Julie” in Waterloo Sunset.
Studying yoga
He was once considered to replace Sean Connery as James Bond but said, “I think my ideas about it put the frighteners on Harry. I didn’t get a second call from him.”
After a career lull, he travelled to India, studying yoga. “I always thought after six months or so some great part would come up and nothing did,” he told Desert Island Discs.
His return came with Superman in 1976. He later starred in The Adjustment Bureau, Wall Street, and Star Wars: Episode I. On missed roles, he said, “My only regrets are the films that I passed on because I was fearful.”
Stamp had agreed to return for a Priscilla sequel, with director Stephan Elliott saying, “The story is untold.”
