38. Yoda

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.

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