Terence Stamp Dies at 87 – Iconic Actor Best Known as General Zod and Priscilla Star

 

British actor Terence Stamp, celebrated for his portrayal of iconic characters like General Zod in the Superman films and the compassionate Bernadette in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, passed away on August 17, 2025, at the age of 87.

 

Terrence Stamp

A Legendary Career and Lasting Legacy

Stamp launched his screen career in 1962 with Billy Budd, earning an Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe for Most Promising Newcomer. His early fame in Swinging London during the 1960s placed him at the forefront of cultural glamour, frequently photographed alongside icons like Julie Christie and Jean Shrimpton.

In the late 1970s, Stamp made a stunning comeback as General Zod, the menacing villain in Superman (1978) and Superman II (1980). His performance remains one of the most memorable in the franchise’s history.

In 1994, Stamp delivered a heartfelt and critically acclaimed performance as a transgender woman in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, earning major award nominations.

Beyond these milestones, his filmography includes standout roles in The Limey, Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, Valkyrie, The Adjustment Bureau, Last Night in Soho, and numerous collaborations with acclaimed directors such as Fellini, Soderbergh, and Tim Burton.

 

Personal Life & Background

• Born in 1938 in Stepney, East London, Stamp emerged from modest beginnings in a working-class family. His early life included surviving WWII bombings and pursuing work in advertising before earning a drama scholarship.
• He was married once, in 2002, to Elizabeth O’Rourke—who was significantly younger; the marriage ended in 2008.

 

Legacy: Actor, Writer, and Cultural Icon

Stamp leaves behind an extraordinary legacy as both an actor and writer. His family said: "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," requesting privacy during this difficult time.

His career spanned six decades and included acclaimed contributions to literature and voice work in video games and animation.