Richard Donat, a versatile Canadian actor whose career spanned the prestigious stages of the National Theatre School to the far reaches of the Star Wars galaxy, has died at the age of 84. The news of the Star Wars actor dead at 84 following lengthy illness marks the loss of a performer deeply rooted in the artistic community of Nova Scotia and the broader North American screen and stage.
Donat passed away on Saturday, March 28, surrounded by his longtime partner, Maggie Thomas, and their sons, Owen and Morgan Donat. His passing follows a two-year battle with an unnamed illness, during which he received care at the South Shore Regional Hospital.
While he may be recognized by a generation of sci-fi enthusiasts for his contributions to the Star Wars expanded universe, Donat was a celebrated figure in Canadian arts. A graduate of the National Theatre School of Canada class of 1967, he spent decades cultivating a reputation for depth and reliability in both dramatic and supernatural roles.
A Voice from the Forest Moon of Endor
For many, Donat’s most whimsical contribution to pop culture was his role in the 1980s animated series Star Wars: Ewoks. He provided the voice for Deej, a character within a series that expanded the lore of the forest moon of Endor, following the adventures of Wicket and his companions.
The series, which aired for two seasons on ABC, served as a cornerstone for the franchise’s television presence during the 1980s. Donat’s voice work helped bring the distinct, community-driven atmosphere of the Ewoks to life, contributing to the enduring charm of the species that first captured audiences in Return of the Jedi.
From the National Stage to ‘Haven’
Beyond the voice booth, Donat was a powerhouse of the theater. His stage credits include acclaimed performances in In the Jungle of the Cities, Fool For Love, and Driving Miss Daisy. This foundation in classical and contemporary theater informed his approach to screen acting, where he appeared in a wide array of projects including The Weight of Water, Amelia, The Event, and Tomorrow Never Comes.
In later years, Donat found a homecoming of sorts in the supernatural drama Haven, which aired from 2010 to 2015. Filmed in his native Nova Scotia, the series was loosely based on Stephen King’s 2005 mystery novel The Colorado Kid. Donat portrayed Vince Teagues, a role that allowed him to reconnect with the landscape and community of his youth.
Reflecting on the experience in 2012, Donat noted the profound impact of the production on his local life, stating that having such a significant show come to his longtime home was quite extraordinary.
© Toronto Star via Getty ImagesA Legacy of Cinematic Excellence
Richard Donat was born into a family with a deep pedigree in the performing arts. His uncle was the legendary Robert Donat, one of the most respected actors of the Golden Age of Hollywood. Robert Donat gained international acclaim for his roles in The 39 Steps and The Count of Monte Cristo, and he secured the Academy Award for Best Actor in 1940 for his performance in Goodbye, Mr. Chips.
The family’s artistic reach extended to Richard’s brother, Peter Donat, a well-known actor who appeared in the 1980s soap opera Flamingo Road and the seminal sci-fi series The X-Files. Peter passed away in 2018 due to complications from diabetes, while Robert died in 1958 at the age of 53 from a brain tumor.
© Getty ImagesFinal Days and Family Tributes
In his private life, Donat was known as much for his devotion to his family and his garden as he was for his professional accolades. He is survived by his partner, Maggie Thomas, their sons, and four grandchildren: Charlize, Nadia, Mira, and Taran.
A tribute from the funeral home described him as a “passionate gardener, a loving and supportive partner, a devoted father and an extremely proud grandfather,” adding that he was, above all, “a good man.”
© Getty ImagesThe Donat family has requested that donations be made to the South Shore Regional Hospital in Richard’s memory, citing the kindness and support provided by the hospital staff during his final two years of treatment.
Disclaimer: This article contains information regarding medical treatment and illness. It’s intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.
As the community of Nova Scotia and fans of the Star Wars franchise mourn his loss, the family has not yet announced a date for a public memorial service. Updates regarding tributes or official commemorations are expected to be shared through the funeral home’s official channels.
We invite you to share your memories of Richard Donat’s work in the comments below.
