Oscar-nominated actor Terence Stamp, best known in queer cinema for his groundbreaking role in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, has passed away at the age of 87.
Stamp’s family confirmed his death on Sunday, August 17, through a statement celebrating the actor’s long and diverse career. “He leaves behind an extraordinary body of work, both as an actor and as a writer, that will continue to touch and inspire people for years to come,” the statement read.
Though Stamp earned international fame playing General Zod in Superman and Superman II, his portrayal of Bernadette Bassenger in the 1994 Australian cult classic Priscilla cemented his place in queer cinematic history. Bernadette, a trans woman and seasoned performer, embarks on a flamboyant journey across the Australian outback with two younger drag queens, played by Guy Pearce and Hugo Weaving. The film became an instant queer staple, known for its celebration of gender expression, found family, and resilience.
For his moving and nuanced performance in Priscilla, Stamp received nominations from several major award bodies, including the BAFTA, AACTA, and the Golden Globes. It was not his first brush with critical acclaim – Stamp’s debut performance in the 1962 drama Billy Budd earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, launching a career that would span more than six decades.
In the wake of his passing, Stamp’s Priscilla co-star Guy Pearce shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. “Farewell dear Tel,” Pearce wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “You were a true inspiration, both in and out of heels. We will always have Kings Canyon, Kings Road, and F-ing ABBA. Wishing you well on your way, ‘Ralph’.”
Directed by Stephen Elliott, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert became a cultural phenomenon upon its release. It broke barriers in mainstream cinema by portraying LGBTQ lives with humor, heart, and humanity. The film resonated with audiences around the world and has remained a beloved touchstone for generations of queer viewers.
In an interview earlier this year, Elliott confirmed that a sequel to Priscilla is currently in development, three decades after the original film premiered. “The original cast is on board. I have a script that everybody likes, we are still working out deals… it is happening,” Elliott told Deadline. He also reflected on the urgency of the project, stating, “People have been screaming for me to do this for 30 years. And suddenly, I had the realization that we are getting older. We are losing people.”
Stamp’s passing underscores the poignancy of Elliott’s words and the importance of preserving the legacy of artists who have paved the way for greater queer representation in film.
Beyond Priscilla, Stamp’s career included roles in critically acclaimed projects such as The Collector, The Limey, and Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. He was widely respected not only for his striking presence and sharp features, but also for his willingness to challenge expectations and redefine masculinity in cinema.
Though his time on screen has come to a close, Terence Stamp’s impact will live on through the characters he brought to life and the lives he touched through his artistry. His performance as Bernadette Bassenger, in particular, remains a beacon for those seeking representation, compassion, and courage in film.
As fans and friends remember Stamp’s career and his contributions to both queer cinema and mainstream film, tributes continue to pour in from across the globe. He is remembered not just for his talent, but for his grace, his bravery, and his willingness to step into roles that mattered.
