Mark Dodson, the talented actor best known for providing the voice of Salacious B. Crumb in the Star Wars franchise, has passed away at the age of 64. Dodson’s son, Steven, confirmed the news on social media, revealing that his father died peacefully in his sleep. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Dodson’s portrayal of the cackling, mischievous Kowakian monkey-lizard in the iconic Star Wars film Return of the Jedi earned him a special place in the hearts of fans around the world. While he may not have been a household name like some of the other actors in the franchise, Dodson’s contribution to the Star Wars universe was significant and celebrated by fans and fellow actors alike.
In addition to his work in Star Wars, Dodson also lent his voice to a number of other notable projects, including Gremlins and Spaceballs. His unique vocal talents and ability to bring characters to life through his voice work made him a highly sought-after talent in the entertainment industry.
Dodson’s passing has sparked an outpouring of love and condolences from fans, colleagues, and friends. Many have taken to social media to share their memories of working with him and express their sadness over his untimely death.
Mark Dodson will be remembered not only for his contributions to the Star Wars franchise but also for his incredible talent and the impact he had on those who had the pleasure of knowing him. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Mark Dodson. You will be greatly missed.
Mark Dodson has passed away. The character actor, best known for his voice work in Star Wars: Return of the Jedi and Gremlins, was 64. Speaking to TMZ, Mark’s daughter, Ciara, announced that he had died in Evansville, Indiana, after travelling to the state for Horror Con.
According to Ciara, the Star Wars alum had checked into a hotel ahead of the event, where he later suffered a “massive heart attack” in his sleep. She added that her beloved father had “never ceased making me proud,” and that his legacy would live on in both his grandchildren and herself.
Following the news, Evansville Horror Con – where he was scheduled to attend – has released a public tribute on Facebook. It reads: “We are heartbroken to announce the sudden passing of Mark Dodson last night. Mark was not only a talented voice actor but also a cherished member of the horror community.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fans during this incredibly difficult time. We hope that you can take a moment out of your day to reflect on the joy and laughter that Mark brought into the world. His legacy will live on through his work.”
Fans have also taken to social media to mourn Mark. “Heartbreaking. Thank you for all the beloved times from my childhood Mark Dodson,” penned one.
“Truly saddened to hear of the passing of #MarkDodson. I had the pleasure of meeting him @ricomiccon in 2019 & he was extremely kind, even recreating his iconic Salacious B. Crumb laugh. It will serve as a memory I will always cherish,” tweeted another.
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Meanwhile, the Peter Mayhew Foundation penned: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we learn of the passing of Mark Dodson. Mark was genuine and funny and the characters he brought to life will always be as iconic as he was kind. Thank you for everything Mark, you are missed.”
Over the past few decades, Mark had established an impressive body of voice work, but Salacious B. Crumb – the Kowakian monkey-lizard who sits by Jabba the Hutt – is by far his best-known character. While Salacious only appeared in The Return of the Jedi, he remains an iconic part of the franchise.
Mark is also recognised for voicing multiple gremlins in the 1984 film of the same name.