Chris Parsons is a British actor and convention speaker best known for his remarkable contribution to the original Star Wars trilogy. As a speaker, he captivates audiences with unique behind-the-scenes insights into some of the most iconic films in cinematic history. Chris’s most notable achievement is his portrayal of multiple characters in Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, including the fan-favourite bounty hunter 4-LOM, alongside his work as C-3PO’s double and stand-in.
Chris’s film journey began unexpectedly when, at just 18, he auditioned at EMI Elstree Studios. He was shown into a room with the iconic C-3PO costume, where he was told the role required someone who could physically handle the restrictive suit and endure the headpiece being screwed on. Unlike others who turned it down, Chris embraced the challenge, securing the part as C-3PO’s double. This breakout moment led to a series of background roles in both The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, including K-3PO, R-3PO, E-3PO, Death Star Droid, Stormtrooper, Snowtrooper, and even a Hoth Snowspeeder Pilot.
Beyond the Star Wars universe, Chris featured - often uncredited - in an impressive number of major films. These include Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Shining, For Your Eyes Only, Never Say Never Again, Reds, Yentl, Quadrophenia, and Dance with a Stranger, among others. Although his on-screen appearances were brief, they collectively demonstrate his versatility and professionalism across genres. His performance style relied on physicality, subtle character portrayal, and adaptability - traits that made him indispensable on set.
As a speaker, Chris brings rare and engaging stories from the golden age of cinema. He shares candid moments from film sets, such as pranks with Carrie Fisher and Mark Hamill, or improvising inside the 4-LOM costume. Audiences hire him for insights into filmmaking, perseverance behind the scenes, and the art of character performance without the fame. His talks resonate with film students, sci-fi fans, and corporate groups alike, offering lessons in humility, adaptability, and dedication. With decades of experience and a deep connection to one of the most beloved franchises in film history, Chris Parsons is a truly special voice on any stage.
Chris Parsons' official speaker topics are listed below:
- Life Behind the Mask: Stories from the Galaxy Far, Far Away
- Becoming 4-LOM: The Journey of an Unsung Sci-Fi Icon
- The Realities of Filming Blockbusters as a Background Actor
- Professionalism on Set: Making Yourself Indispensable
- Legacy Without the Limelight: Influence Without Fame
- The Rise of the Star Wars Fandom & Its Cultural Impact
- Behind the Scenes of The Empire Strikes Back
- 2020 – Commissioned Limited Edition 40th Anniversary Print – 4-LOM Art for Empire Strikes Back fans
- 2016 – Convention Circuit Guest Speaker – Regular appearances at sci-fi and film fan events
- 1985 – Dinner Guest in Dance with a Stranger
- 1983 – Scholar in Yentl
- 1983 – Casino Guest in Never Say Never Again
- 1983 – Y-Wing Pilot & Stormtrooper in Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi
- 1983 – C-3PO Double & Stand-in in Return of the Jedi
- 1983 – British Soldier in Privates on Parade
- 1982 – Knights Templar Guard in Ivanhoe (TV Movie)
- 1982 – C-3PO Double in Return of the Ewok
- 1981 – Communist Partisan in Reds
- 1981 – Lower Class Workman in Ragtime
- 1981 – Local Islander in Eye of the Needle
- 1981 – Skier in For Your Eyes Only
- 1981 – Nazi Soldier in Raiders of the Lost Ark
- 1980 – Dinner Guest in The Shining
- 1980 – 4-LOM, K-3PO, Stormtrooper in Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back
- 1980 – C-3PO Double in The Empire Strikes Back
- 1980 – Double: Jimmy Olsen in Superman II
- 1980 – Punk Rocker in Breaking Glass
- 1979 – American Soldier in Yanks
- 1979 – British Soldier in Hanover Street
- 1979 – Door Bouncer in Quadrophenia
- 1979 – American Soldier in Ike: The War Years
- 1978 – Posh Gent in The First Great Train Robbery
How to hire Chris Parsons
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Chris Parsons for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do NOT accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
