Darren Criss Leads Tributes to Erik Bauersfeld Who Played General Ackbar in ‘Star Wars’
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Photo Credit: Screen Crush
Darren Criss has paid tribute to Star Wars actor Erik Bauersfeld following his death.
Bauersfeld voiced Admiral Ackbar in 1983 movie Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi and coined a catchphrase “It’s a trap,” which went on to become a popular internet meme.
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His manager Derek Maki told the Associated Press that Bauersfeld lost his life on Sunday at his home in Berkeley, California.
Several celebrities were quick to pay tribute to the actor, with former Glee star Criss writing: “RIP Erik Bauersfeld, who gave us Admiral Akbar’s voice, and one of the best line readings in voiceover history. May the force be with you!”
Settling In actress Aimee Drinkwater added: “I wish this was a trap : ( RIP Erik Bauersfeld.”
Meanwhile, Coolwaters Productions, who represented Bauersfeld, released a statement following his death which read: “Actor Erik Bauersfeld, known by Star Wars fans around globe as the voice of Admiral Ackbar, has passed away.”
“His passing comes at the age of 93 and the cause was natural causes. Erik will be deeply missed by his family here at Coolwaters and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”
Prior to landing his Star Wars breakout role, the actor had largely worked in radio. But when he was cast as Ackbar, a character with a domed head and large fish-like eyes, Bauersfeld said he knew exactly what voice was needed.
“I saw the face, and I knew what he must sound like,” he told the San Francisco Chronicle back in 2011. He also voiced the character of Jabba the Hutt’s steward Bib Fortuna in Return of the Jedi.
Despite only being on screen for a brief period of time, Ackbar’s catchphrase ensured he quickly became a favorite among Star Wars fans.
However, Bauersfeld previously admitted he didn’t even remember the scene in question.
“The fans who write say they’ll never forget ‘It’s a trap!’ I don’t even remember how I said it,” he added to the San Francisco Chronicle. “It’s not that I don’t like it or don’t respect it. I just don’t have time to be a fan and see it 10 times or 20 times.”
