Hollywood and the wider entertainment world are mourning the passing of Canadian actor Richard Donat, who has died at the age of 84. His family confirmed that he passed away on March 28 after a period of illness, bringing an end to a long and respected career across film, television, and animation. His funeral is scheduled for April 29. Donat was especially remembered by science fiction fans for his voice role as Deej Warrick, the father of Wicket, in the animated Star Wars: Ewoks series. His performance helped shape part of the beloved Star Wars expanded universe and earned him lasting recognition among fans of the franchise.
His passing also highlights a deeply rooted family legacy in acting. His brother, Peter Donat—known for playing Fox Mulder’s father in The X-Files—previously passed away due to complications related to diabetes. The family’s artistic history extends further back to their uncle, acclaimed actor Robert Donat, best known for The 39 Steps, who also left behind a celebrated but shortened legacy. Richard Donat is survived by his partner Maggie Thomas, his sons Owen and Morgan, and his four grandchildren—Charlize, Nadia, Mira, and Taran—who were described as a central source of joy in his life.
In a heartfelt tribute, his family remembered him not only as a performer but as a warm and grounded man who found happiness in everyday moments. They described him as “a passionate gardener, a loving and supportive partner, a devoted father and an extremely proud grandfather,” adding, “He will be missed but his presence will always be with us. He was a good man.” They also expressed gratitude to the staff at South Shore Regional Hospital for their care and noted that donations could be made in his memory.
Beyond his voice work in Ewoks, Donat built a respected acting career in Canadian television and film, appearing in productions such as Emily of New Moon, Blackfly, My American Cousin, The Weight of Water, The Event, and Amelia. His role in My American Cousin earned him a Genie Award nomination. Later in his career, he reached new audiences through the supernatural series Haven, filmed in Nova Scotia, where he lived for many years and felt a strong personal connection to the work.
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