It is with great sadness that I report on the passing of a Hollywood makeup legend, Stuart Freeborn. Those in the special effects makeup community are already aware of this pioneering makeup artists contributions to the genre. Mr. Freeborn had a career in the film business spanning 54 years doing makeup. Some of his legendary creations included Yoda and Chewbacca from the Star Wars films.
According to the Associated Press,
LucasFilm confirmed Wednesday that Freeborn had passed away, “leaving a legacy of unforgettable contributions.”
“Star Wars” director George Lucas said in a statement that Freeborn was “already a makeup legend” when he started working on “Star Wars.”
“He brought with him not only decades of experience, but boundless creative energy,” Lucas said. “His artistry and craftsmanship will live on forever in the characters he created. His “Star Wars” creatures may be reinterpreted in new forms by new generations, but at their heart, they continue to be what Stuart created for the original films.”
Freeborn’s granddaughter, Michelle Freeborn, said he died Tuesday in London from a combination of ailments due to his age. Michelle Freeborn, who lives in Wellington, New Zealand, said her grandfather was “like a hero” to her and inspired her and her late father to get into the movie business, too.
Freeborn’s six-decade career led him to work on many classics, including Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey.”
We here at Horror Society would like to offer our sincere condolences to Stuart Freeborn’s family and friends during this difficult time. May I say that Mr. Freeborn’s contributions to the world of special effects makeup are immeasurable and he will be sorely missed.
