Actor Terence Stamp Dies at 87, Known as Superman Villain

British Acting Legend Passes Away

Terence Stamp, the acclaimed British actor renowned for his portrayal of the villain General Zod in the Superman film series, has died at age 87. His family confirmed his passing on August 17, 2025, though no cause of death was disclosed.

Iconic Career Spanning Six Decades

Stamp's career began with his 1962 film debut in "Billy Budd," which earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor and a Golden Globe for Newcomer of the Year. He became known for sophisticated villain roles and complex character portrayals throughout his 60-year career.

Memorable Performances

Stamp achieved global recognition as General Zod in 1978's "Superman" and its 1980 sequel, starring opposite Christopher Reeve. Other notable roles included Bernadette in "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert" (1994), Chancellor Valorum in "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace" (1999), and recent appearances in "Valkyrie" (2008) and Edgar Wright's "Last Night in Soho" (2021).

Television and Legacy

From 2003-2011, Stamp appeared in the TV series "Smallville" as Jor-El. His family released a statement praising his "extraordinary body of work that will continue to inspire." Stamp remained active in film until his death, leaving behind a legacy as one of Britain's most distinguished character actors.