Deep Roy, who shows up in everything, played Yoda in a few walking shots in The Empire Strikes Back.

Deep Roy, who shows up in everything, played Yoda in a few walking shots in The Empire Strikes Back.

Title: Deep Roy: The Hidden Force Behind Yoda’s Walk in Star Wars and Hollywood’s Most Prolific Background Star

Meta Description: Discover how Deep Roy, a character actor with over 150 credits, secretly contributed to Yoda’s iconic walk in The Empire Strikes Back—and why you’ve seen him in everything.

Deep Roy: The Unsung Puppeteer of Yoda’s Walk in Star Wars

When fans think of Yoda in The Empire Strikes Back (1980), legendary puppeteer Frank Oz rightfully comes to mind. But unbeknownst to many, another Hollywood fixture played a subtle role in bringing the Jedi Master to life: Deep Roy, the prolific actor and stunt performer who operated Yoda’s legs during select walking scenes.

Roy, standing at 4’4”, was a perfect fit for maneuvering the puppet’s lower half in wide shots where Yoda hobbled through Dagobah’s swamps. Though Oz handled dialogue and facial expressions, Roy’s contribution ensured the character moved with organic realism. This rare trivia snippet underscores Roy’s unique career—one defined by anonymity, versatility, and an uncanny ability to appear in virtually every major franchise.

From Star Wars to Stardom: Deep Roy’s Everywhere Career

Deep Roy (born Mohinder Purba in Kenya) has built a 40+ year career as Hollywood’s ultimate “That Guy” actor. With over 150 film and TV credits, he’s the human embodiment of “spot the cameo.” Here’s why his filmography is legendary:

1. The Oompa-Loompa Revolution:
   Roy achieved global recognition as every single Oompa-Loompa in Tim Burton’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005). Using CGI and puppetry, he performed all 165 roles himself—a feat requiring 12-hour days in prosthetics.

2. Sci-Fi & Fantasy Royalty:

   • STAR TREK: Played Scotty’s taciturn alien sidekick, Keenser, in J.J. Abrams’ Kelvin Timeline films.
   • DR. WHO & THE HITCHHIKER’S GUIDE: Appeared in cult classics like The Five Doctors (1983) and The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (1981).
   • PLANET OF THE APES & BATMAN: Performed stunt work in 2001’s Planet of the Apes and Burton’s Batman (1989).

3. Blockbuster Background Magic:
   Roy’s stature and athleticism made him ideal for creature roles. He’s been a Ewok scout in Return of the Jedi, a goblin in Labyrinth, and even jabbed Will Smith in Men in Black 3 as a tiny alien prisoner.

Why You Recognize Deep Roy (Even If You Don’t Know His Name)

Roy’s superpower? Adaptability. Whether buried under prosthetics, operating puppets, or performing stunts, he’s a chameleon. Unlike stars who crave the spotlight, Roy thrives in collaboration:

“I’ve never been bothered about fame. I just love my job. Every role is a new challenge.”

His humility and work ethic have endeared him to directors like Burton, Abrams, and Spielberg (Hook’s tattooed twin).

The Legacy of a Hollywood Hidden Gem

While Roy’s Star Wars connection remains a niche trivia gem, his broader impact is undeniable. He paved the way for small-statured actors in an industry once limited to typecasting. Today, stars like Peter Dinklage (who called Roy “a trailblazer”) stand on his shoulders.

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Conclusion: The Man Who’s Done It All

From puppeteering Yoda to playing 165 Oompa-Loompas, Deep Roy embodies the spirit of Hollywood’s unsung heroes. Next time you rewatch Empire, look closely at Yoda’s walk—you’re witnessing a master at work. And if you spot a tiny, fierce figure in your favorite movie? It’s probably Deep Roy… again.

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