Vader pleads for one more outing

For an entire generation of movie goers, he was the ultimate extraterrestrial screen villain - the rasping, black-cloaked Lord of Darkness.

Now, 20 years after he last crossed light-sabres with Luke Skywalker, the man who played Darth Vader in the original Star Wars trilogy says he is ready to reprise his role as the Dark Lord. David Prowse, now 66 and preparing for his fifth hip operation, admits he is a long way past the peak of fitness he attained in his twenties, prior to Star Wars, when he was three times British Weightlifting Champion and a contender for Mr Universe.

The incredible, 20-stone 6ft 7in frame with which he impressed body-building judges in his youth has been reduced by old age, severe arthritis and a mystery illness he suffered last year that impaired the use of his left arm.

However, with interest in the Star Wars movies riding an all-time high and with George Lucas preparing to cast the sixth and final part, which begins shooting next year, Mr Prowse is determined to land the role that made him famous two decades ago.

Speaking from his home in Croydon, which he shares with his wife Norma, Mr Prowse told the Evening Standard: "It was such a major part of my life and career. I believe I've become synonymous with Darth Vader.

"If the studio thought I wouldn't be up to the demands of the role, I would have to accept that. I would offer my congratulations to whoever won the role, but I would definitely have pangs of regret watching someone else play Darth Vader."

Although he has not spoken to producer George Lucas since 1983, Prowse said that "his people know I am around". He said: "I met Lucas film executives earlier this year and I made clear that I want to play Darth Vader again.

They know my feelings. They are honour-bound to offer me the role and if I am fit and pass the screen-test then I expect to get it. I am waiting for their call. If I don't get it then I know the fans would create a storm and would be on my side."

Prowse's family - including two sons, a daughter and two grandchildren who quizzed him accusingly over his role as "the baddie" when they first saw the films - are "fully behind" his plans, but they are concerned over his physical condition.

He said: "They are already worried about my workload, and the way I am jetting off across the globe for Star Wars events.