Stuart Freeborn Make-up artist, creator of the character Yoda from Star Wars Date of Birth: 05.09.1914 Country: USA

Biography of Stuart Freeborn

Stuart Freeborn was a famous British makeup artist and prosthetics designer, best known for his work on the "Star Wars" saga. He was born in 1914 in London, England, to a stockbroker father. Despite his father's wishes for him to follow in his footsteps, Freeborn was determined to pursue a career in the film industry.

Freeborn began working in the film industry in 1930, starting out as an assistant to director Alexander Korda. He honed his skills as a makeup artist and prosthetics designer while working with young screen stars such as Vivien Leigh and Marlene Dietrich. After serving in the British Air Force during World War II, Freeborn continued his work in the British film industry.

During this time, he contributed to the creation of classic British films such as "The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp" and David Lean's 1948 version of "Oliver Twist." One notable achievement was transforming actor Alec Guinness into Fagin, a character with a large hooked nose, for which Freeborn faced accusations of anti-Semitism, despite being partly Jewish himself.

Later, Freeborn collaborated with Stanley Kubrick, providing makeup for the actors in "2001: A Space Odyssey." However, it was his work on the "Star Wars" franchise that brought Freeborn the most recognition. He created the iconic character Chewbacca and is most famous for his depiction of the wise Jedi Master Yoda, who was inspired by the appearance of Albert Einstein.

George Lucas later referred to Freeborn as a "legendary makeup artist." Freeborn's wife, Kay, passed away in 2012, and his three sons, Roger, Ray, and Graham, preceded him in death. Stuart Freeborn died on February 5, 2013, in London at the age of 99. His granddaughter, Michelle Freeborn, revealed that his death was due to his advanced age and associated illnesses.

The world mourns the loss of Stuart Freeborn, a legendary makeup artist and prosthetics designer. His contributions to the film industry are celebrated not only by filmmakers but also by millions of viewers familiar with the beloved characters of Chewbacca and Yoda.