Michael Henbury, widely recognized as the United Kingdom’s shortest man and fondly remembered by fans for his role in Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi, has died at the age of 67.
Standing at just 2 feet 11 inches tall, Henbury carved out a unique space in popular culture through his portrayal of the Ewok character Teboo in the 1983 film. Directed by Richard Marquand and produced by George Lucas, the movie concluded the original Star Wars trilogy and introduced audiences to the forest moon of Endor and its resourceful Ewok inhabitants.
Though the Ewoks communicated in a fictional language and were hidden beneath detailed costumes, the performers behind the masks brought emotional depth and physical nuance to their roles. Film historians have often credited the Ewoks’ charm with broadening the franchise’s cross-generational appeal, helping cement Return of the Jedi as a cultural milestone.
Beyond his on-screen work, Henbury embraced public appearances and fan conventions, where he connected with audiences who cherished the original trilogy. Fellow actor Martin Ballantyne described him as a “lovely fellow actor” and recalled sharing comic convention stages and laughter over the years.
Online tributes from fan communities describe Henbury as “a small but unforgettable part of a galaxy far, far away.” His life also held symbolic significance. As the UK’s shortest man, he openly embraced his individuality, using it to build a career in entertainment at a time when on-screen representation for people with dwarfism was limited.
Henbury’s passing marks another farewell for the generation of performers who helped shape the early Star Wars legacy. While his role may have been brief, fans say its impact endures — a reminder that even the smallest characters can leave a lasting imprint on cinematic history.
“May the Force be with you,” one tribute read — a sentiment shared across the global fan community.