Appearances: The Star Wars series (1980-2005)
Creators: George Lucas, Leigh Brackett, Lawrence Kasdan
Performer: Frank Oz
Defining moment: Lifting a sunken X-Wing out of a swamp. “I don’t believe it,” says Luke. “This is why you fail,” replies the crestfallen Jedi master, never quick to encourage.
Fascinating fact: In early drafts the so-called Minch Yoda kept his house spotlessly clean.