British Cinema Legend Terence Stamp Dies at 87

Terence Stamp, the iconic British actor renowned for his chilling portrayal of General Zod in Superman (1978) and Superman II (1980), passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at the age of 87, his family confirmed to Reuters.

Born in London’s East End in 1938, Stamp rose to prominence in the 1960s, embodying the vibrant Swinging London scene. His breakout role in Billy Budd (1962) earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor and a Golden Globe for Most Promising Newcomer. His striking looks and intense screen presence led to roles in classics like The Collector (1965), where he won Best Actor at Cannes, and Far from the Madding Crowd (1967), opposite Julie Christie, with whom he shared a high-profile romance.

Stamp’s career spanned over 60 years and more than 120 films, showcasing his versatility in roles ranging from the sadistic General Zod to the poignant transgender character Bernadette in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994), which earned him BAFTA and Golden Globe nominations. Other notable credits include The Limey (1999), Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999), Valkyrie (2008), The Adjustment Bureau (2011), and his final role in Last Night in Soho (2021).

After a quieter period in the 1970s, during which he explored yoga in India, Stamp’s career was revitalized by his iconic Superman role. He later voiced Jor-El in Smallville, further cementing his legacy in the Superman franchise. Beyond acting, Stamp was an accomplished writer, penning memoirs and a novel.

His family stated, “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.” They requested privacy during this time.

Stamp’s death marks the end of an era for British cinema, but his unforgettable performances will endure.