The NeverEnding Story burst onto screens in 1984, captivating a generation with its fantastical world of Fantasia and the heartfelt journey of a boy named Bastian. Based on Michael Ende’s German novel, this film, along with its two sequels and an animated series, introduced a rich tapestry of characters, brought to vivid life by a diverse and talented ensemble.
While Fantasia’s story is “neverending,” the real-life tales of some individuals who crafted this magic did, sadly, conclude. It’s a poignant reminder that even as fictional worlds live on, the artists who create them are only with us for a time. With so many memorable faces and voices, you might not know about the passing of some remarkable performers.
So, turn the page with us now as we journey through memory, celebrating the lives and careers of “The NeverEnding Story” actors whose time has passed. Their contributions to this cherished fantasy epic – and many other projects – continue to enchant and inform us. Prepare to discover surprising facts and heartfelt tributes.
1. Thomas Hill as Carl Conrad Coreander
The enchanting adventures in “The NeverEnding Story” wouldn’t have begun if Bastian hadn’t stumbled into the mysterious bookstore of Carl Conrad Coreander. Portrayed by Thomas Hill, this cranky yet inspiring bookseller served as the initial catalyst, handing Bastian the ancient tome that would transport him to Fantasia. Hill imbued Coreander with a perfect blend of gruffness and hidden wisdom.
Beyond Coreander’s bookshop, Thomas Hill enjoyed a long and varied career. Many remember his recurring role as Jim Dixon in the classic CBS sitcom “Newhart,” contrasting his fantastical role and showcasing his versatility. His work spanned a wide range of genres and characters.
Remarkably, Hill reprised his role in “The NeverEnding Story II: The Next Chapter” in 1990, the only original actor to do so. The character’s name was altered to Karl Koreander, aligning with the novel. Sadly, this return was his final film performance. Thomas Hill passed away on April 20, 2009, at 81, from a heart attack. He will forever remain the stern, insightful guardian of stories.
Read more about: Remembering the Magic: 14 ‘NeverEnding Story’ Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away
2. Moses Gunn as Cairon
In Fantasia, few characters bore as much gravity as Cairon, the venerable herald of the Childlike Empress. Tasked with dispatching Atreyu on his quest to save Fantasia from the Nothing, Cairon’s role was crucial. Portrayed with dignity by Moses Gunn, his presence lent urgency and profound wisdom, anchoring the fantastical.
Gunn’s illustrious career extended far beyond the Ivory Tower. He was prominent in film and television, leaving an indelible mark. Many recall his powerful portrayal of Bumpy Jonas, Shaft’s archnemesis, in “Shaft” and “Shaft’s Big Score!” He also played former boxing champion Joe Kagan in “Little House on the Prairie.”
His talents were recognized with roles like Booker T. Washington in “Ragtime.” He earned an Emmy nomination for Kintango in ABC’s “Roots.” Beyond camera, Gunn was a celebrated stage actor, winning an Obie Award in 1968 and receiving a Tony nomination in 1976. His passing on December 16, 1993, at 64, due to asthma, ended a prolific career, but his performances endure.
Read more about: Remembering the Magic: 14 ‘NeverEnding Story’ Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away
3. Patricia Hayes as Urgl
“The NeverEnding Story” introduced Urgl, a gnome absorbed in concocting strange broths and bickering with her husband, Engywook. Patricia Hayes brought Urgl to vivid life. Her character also performed a crucial, albeit comically absurd, role by injecting Falkor with vitamins, acting as Fantasia’s unconventional fantasy veterinarian.
Hayes’s extensive career spanned over six decades, accumulating over 130 acting credits. Her filmography includes “Willow” and “A Fish Called Wanda,” showcasing her comedic timing. She was a familiar face on British television, appearing in “The Benny Hill Show,” “Till Death Us Do Part,” and “Spooner’s Patch.”
She won a BAFTA in 1972 for her portrayal of Edna, the Inebriate Woman in “Play for Today.” Her contributions were recognized with an OBE in 1988 for her acting work. Patricia Hayes passed away on September 19, 1998, at 88, due to natural causes, leaving an extraordinary body of work that continues to provide “a never-ending amount of entertainment.”
Read more about: Remembering the Magic: 14 ‘NeverEnding Story’ Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away
4. Sydney Bromley as Engywook
Complementing Urgl was her spirited husband, Engywook, played by Sydney Bromley in “The NeverEnding Story.” Bromley’s performance as the scientist gnome balanced comedic energy and dramatic gravitas. Engywook’s knowledge of the Southern Oracle guided Atreyu, while his bantering with Urgl offered endearing comic relief.
Bromley’s acting career spanned over 50 years, immersing him in fantastical roles. He featured in “Jabberwocky” (1977) and the epic “Dragonslayer” (1981), contributing to believable worlds of magic. His versatility wasn’t limited to fantasy.
He famously faced the titular creature in “An American Werewolf in London” (1981) and took to the seas in “Pirates” (1986). Throughout his career, he appeared in countless other film and television projects. Sydney Bromley passed away on August 14, 1987, at 78. His work remains a gateway to adventure for many.
Read more about: Remembering the Magic: 14 ‘NeverEnding Story’ Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away
5. Tilo Prückner as The Night Hob
As Bastian delved into “The NeverEnding Story,” one of the first fantastical creatures he encountered was the Night Hob. Played by Tilo Prückner, this character made an immediate impression, setting Fantasia’s whimsical tone. Accompanied by Teeny Weeny and Rock Biter, the Night Hob flew to the Ivory Tower, warning of the Nothing.
While Prückner’s Night Hob might be his most internationally recognized role, or perhaps Doktor Richter in “Iron Sky,” his legacy lies in his prolific German career. He had over 200 German films and TV series credits, spanning from 1967 through 2021, making him a stalwart of German entertainment.
He excelled in television, starring in popular shows like “Adelheid und ihre Mörder,” “Kommissarin Lucas,” and “Rentnercops.” Beyond acting, Prückner published his novel, “Willi Merkatz wird verlassen,” in 2013. Tilo Prückner passed away on July 2, 2020, at 79, from heart failure, ending a remarkable and multifaceted career.
Read more about: Remembering the Magic: 14 ‘NeverEnding Story’ Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away
6. Bernd Eichinger as Man Next to Man Who Drops Milk (and a cinematic titan)
Even “The NeverEnding Story” had grounding moments, with a touch of playful meta-commentary. Near the film’s outset, as Bastian flees bullies, he ducks between two men. One, played by director Wolfgang Petersen, spills his milk. The man next to him, an uncredited cameo, was producer Bernd Eichinger—a fascinating footnote to his larger cinematic contributions.
Eichinger’s producing career was monumental, encompassing a wide range of acclaimed films. His eye was behind major franchises, including four “Resident Evil” films and the first two “Fantastic Four” movies. His portfolio also featured “The Name of the Rose,” demonstrating commitment to diverse storytelling.
Beyond producing, Eichinger was an accomplished screenwriter. He penned “Perfume: The Story of a Murderer” (2006) and, most notably, “Downfall” (2004). The latter received an Oscar nomination and became the source of countless “Hitler Rant” parodies. Bernd Eichinger died of a heart attack on January 24, 2011, at 61, after working on nearly 100 films, inspiring a meme, and producing a classic.
7. Jonathan Brandis as Bastian Balthazar Bux (The NeverEnding Story II)
Six years after the original, “The NeverEnding Story II: The Next Chapter” presented a new adventure for Bastian Balthazar Bux. The role, originally Barret Oliver’s, was recast with Jonathan Brandis, who brought fresh energy. Brandis portrayed Bastian’s return to Fantasia, not only to save the realm but also to confront personal fears like acrophobia.
Before Bastian, Brandis built a promising career with television roles. After “The NeverEnding Story II,” his rise accelerated. He appeared opposite Tim Curry in “Stephen King’s It” (1990) and Rodney Dangerfield in “Ladybugs” (1992). He also starred with Chuck Norris in “Sidekicks” (1992), cementing his status as a rising actor.
Jonathan Brandis became a teen idol as Lucas Wolenczak in NBC’s “seaQuest DSV,” propelling him to fame. Tragically, his career waned afterwards, deeply affecting him. On November 11, 2003, at 27, Jonathan Brandis took his own life. Friends attributed this to depression from his waning career. His passing is a poignant reminder of pressures faced by young actors.
Our journey through Fantasia’s real-life heroes continues, moving beyond the original film’s immediate impact to explore those who lent their talents to the sequels, spin-offs, and even the animated series. These performers and voice actors carried the torch, ensuring the story truly felt never-ending, leaving behind legacies rich with diverse roles and surprising facts. Their contributions shaped how new generations experienced this beloved world, and their stories are just as compelling.
Read more about: Remembering the Magic: 14 ‘NeverEnding Story’ Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away
8. **Freddie Jones as the Old Man of Wandering Mountain and Mr. Coreander (The NeverEnding Story III)**
In the third installment, “The NeverEnding Story III,” veteran actor Freddie Jones took on a fascinating double role. He not only portrayed the mysterious Old Man of Wandering Mountain, who in the original novel authored the NeverEnding Story, but also stepped into the shoes of Mr. Coreander, now reimagined as a librarian at Bastian’s new school. Jones brought a distinctive gravitas to both characters, serving as a protector of the magical book and a guide in Bastian’s continued adventures.
Jones’s career was extraordinarily long and prolific, spanning nearly 60 years and encompassing over 200 film and television projects. His versatility allowed him to appear in big-screen epics like 1983’s “Krull,” 1985’s “Young Sherlock Holmes,” and 2002’s “The Count of Monte Cristo.” He was a truly recognizable face for generations of viewers across various genres.
Notably, Jones had a significant connection to acclaimed director David Lynch, appearing in three of his films: “The Elephant Man,” “Dune,” and “Wild at Heart.” This collaboration highlights his ability to adapt to distinct directorial visions and complex narratives. His final major role was a remarkable 13-year run as Sandy Thomas on the popular ITV soap opera “Emmerdale,” a testament to his enduring talent and appeal.
Freddie Jones passed away on July 9, 2019, at the impressive age of 91, leaving behind a rich filmography and three sons, including the well-known “Harry Potter” and Marvel alum, Toby Jones. His legacy is one of consistent performance and an unwavering commitment to his craft, enriching every project he touched.
Read more about: Remembering the Magic: 14 ‘NeverEnding Story’ Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away
9. Thomas Petruo as Large Head (The NeverEnding Story III)
Another intriguing character from “The NeverEnding Story III” was the aptly named Large Head, who assisted the Childlike Empress and the Old Man of Wandering Mountain in their quest. The actor behind this unique character was Thomas Petruo, who endured quite the transformation for the role. For the nine days he spent on set, Petruo dedicated over four hours each morning to makeup, meticulously crafting the character’s distinctive bulbous appearance.
While his on-screen credits were relatively few, Petruo’s true stamp on the entertainment world was his monumental career in voice acting. He became a titan in German dubbing, lending his voice to over 2,000 films in his native language. This incredible volume of work made him one of Germany’s most recognized and versatile voice artists, a true chameleon of sound.
His voice brought iconic characters to life for German audiences, including Biff Tannen in all the “Back to the Future” films. He also famously dubbed over Gary Oldman in four separate movies and became the German voice of the nefarious Sheldon Plankton in the beloved Nickelodeon series “SpongeBob SquarePants.” Petruo’s vocal range was truly astounding, allowing him to portray everyone from Robert Downey Jr. to Ice-T and Javier Bardem with effortless conviction.
Thomas Petruo passed away on April 13, 2018, at the age of 61. His passing marked the end of a lifetime dedicated to the art of voice, leaving behind a vast catalog of performances that shaped how countless German viewers experienced global cinema. His legacy as a voice artist is undeniably monumental.
Read more about: Remembering the Magic: 14 ‘NeverEnding Story’ Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away
10. William Hootkins as Falkor the Luck Dragon (The NeverEnding Story III)
Falkor, the magnificent flying Luck Dragon, is one of Fantasia’s most beloved inhabitants, an enduring symbol of hope and friendship throughout the entire “NeverEnding Story” franchise. In “The NeverEnding Story III,” the comforting, fluffy, and undeniably lovable Falkor that everyone secretly dreams of riding was given a new voice by the distinctive William Hootkins. He imbued the character with a warmth and wisdom that resonated with audiences.
Hootkins was a familiar face (and voice) across a range of classic genre fare. Fans might recognize him from 1980’s visually stunning “Flash Gordon,” the thrilling adventure of 1981’s “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” or Tim Burton’s dark and iconic “Batman” from 1989. His presence often added a unique charm to these fantastical worlds, cementing him as a favorite among convention-goers.
However, for many, Hootkins is probably best recognized for his brief yet unforgettable role as the ill-fated Rebel pilot Jek Tono Porkins (affectionately known as “Piggy” to his friends) in the 1977 classic “Star Wars.” He was the X-Wing pilot who flew under the callsign Red Six, bravely engaging in the Battle of Yavin. His memorable lines and tragic demise made him a fan-favorite character, forever etched in sci-fi history.
Throughout his impressive 32-year career, Hootkins appeared in over 100 films, television shows, and video games, showcasing his incredible versatility. Whether flying through the skies of Fantasia or navigating the trenches of the Death Star, his performances left a lasting impression. William Hootkins died on October 23, 2005, at the age of 57, after battling pancreatic cancer. Truly, the Force was with him.
Read more about: Remembering the Magic: 14 ‘NeverEnding Story’ Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away
11. Adrien Dorval as the Nasty Rage (The NeverEnding Story III)
In “The NeverEnding Story III,” Fantasia faces a new threat: a gang of bullies called the Nasties. Among them was the formidable Nasty Rage, portrayed with beefy physicality by Adrien Dorval. While the group included a young Jack Black as their leader Slip, Rage provided the much-needed muscle, embodying the imposing presence required for the film’s antagonists. His character added a tangible threat to Bastian’s fantastical adventures.
Dorval’s robust talents graced a wide array of popular television series over the years. Viewers might recall his appearances in beloved shows like “MacGyver,” the immortal “Highlander,” the critically acclaimed 2004 “Battlestar Galactica” reboot, and the popular “Stargate SG-1,” among many others. His ability to fit into diverse sci-fi and action series made him a sought-after presence on the small screen.
His feature film credits are equally impressive, placing him alongside some major stars. He could be spotted opposite Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson in the Western-comedy “Shanghai Noon,” sharing the screen with Vin Diesel in “The Chronicles of Riddick,” and appearing with Robert Pattinson in “The Twilight Saga: New Moon.” These varied roles showcased his range beyond just the imposing physique.
Beyond his extensive screen appearances, Dorval also embraced a heartwarming annual tradition: playing Santa Claus at his local mall. This tender detail reveals a softer side to the actor who often played tough guys. Adrien Dorval died from esophageal cancer on January 5, 2021, at the age of 57, leaving behind a legacy of memorable characters and a giving spirit.
Read more about: Remembering the Magic: 14 ‘NeverEnding Story’ Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away
12. Wayne Robson as Engywook (Animated Series)
After the cinematic trilogy concluded, HBO brought “The Neverending Story” to television screens as a 26-episode animated series, extending Bastian’s adventures in Fantasia. Many familiar characters made the leap to animation, including the eccentric gnome scientist Engywook. In this iteration, the voice of Engywook was skillfully provided by the Canadian actor Wayne Robson, who brought a fresh vocal interpretation to the beloved character.
Robson became a household name in Canada, most famously for his role as the somewhat reformed criminal Mike Hamar on the long-running television comedy “The Red Green Show.” He reprised this role in its 2002 feature film spinoff, “Duct Tape Forever.” His comedic timing and distinctive voice made him a fan favorite, showing his talent for both humor and character depth.
His diverse resume wasn’t limited to comedy, however. Robson also tackled a more intense role as the escape artist Rennes in Vincenzo Natali’s mind-bending 1997 sci-fi horror cult classic “Cube,” showcasing his dramatic capabilities. With over 150 film and television credits, his career spanned a wide spectrum of genres, proving his versatility as an actor.
Interestingly, “The Neverending Story” wasn’t Robson’s only animated series adaptation of a live-action film. He also lent his voice to multiple characters in USA Network’s “Highlander: The Animated Series,” further cementing his presence in the world of animated fantasy. Wayne Robson died from a heart attack on April 4, 2011, at the age of 64, leaving a significant mark on both live-action and voice acting.
Read more about: Remembering the Magic: 14 ‘NeverEnding Story’ Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away
13. Chris Wiggins as Mr. Coreander (Animated Series)
In the HBO animated series of “The Neverending Story,” the mysterious bookseller Mr. Coreander returned, though not in the way viewers might expect. He was never actually seen on-screen, instead leaving notes and the titular magical book for Bastian to discover while he was ostensibly off on errands. These crucial, narrated notes, guiding Bastian’s journey, were voiced by the prolific actor Chris Wiggins.
Wiggins’s voiceover career was extensive, kicking off in 1966 when he voiced Thor in Marvel’s very first television show, “The Marvel Super Heroes.” His early animation work also included providing multiple voices for the 1967 animated “Spider-Man” series, establishing him as a foundational voice in superhero cartoons. He later became Prince Mon Julpa in 1985’s “Star Wars: Droids” and the menacing villain No Heart in “Care Bears.”
Beyond the recording booth, Wiggins was no stranger to live-action television. He starred in 1974’s “The Swiss Family Robinson” and the popular 1987 series “Friday the 13th: The Series,” showcasing his versatility across different mediums. His career was a testament to his enduring talent and the recognizable quality of his voice and presence.
Chris Wiggins passed away on February 19, 2017, at the age of 86, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease. His passing marked a poignant moment: along with Thomas Hill and Freddie Jones, there are now no surviving actors who portrayed the enigmatic bookstore owner and librarian, Mr. Carl Conrad Coreander. Yet, like the story he guarded, his legacy in voice acting remains never-ending.
Read more about: Remembering the Magic: 14 ‘NeverEnding Story’ Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away
14. Donald Arthur as school custodian and Falkor (The NeverEnding Story II: The Next Chapter)
The German-language version of “The NeverEnding Story” offered some unique elements not present in the North American release. One notable difference was a scene featuring an uncredited school custodian, played by Donald Arthur. In this moment, Bastian, hiding and engrossed in the book, causes the custodian to trip over a blanket, prompting an angry huff and some cursing – a fleeting, yet memorable, real-world interruption to Fantasia.
However, Arthur’s contribution to the “NeverEnding Story” series extended beyond this brief, uncredited cameo. He took on a much larger, and equally uncredited, role in “The NeverEnding Story II” by voicing Falkor, the beloved Luck Dragon. He stepped into the role previously held by Alan Oppenheimer, further adding to the rotating cast of actors who lent their voices to the iconic character throughout the franchise.
Arthur’s career, dating back to the 1970s, was multifaceted. Beyond his acting, he was also an accomplished writer and dialogue coach, contributing to the behind-the-scenes magic of film and television. His most widely recognized voice work for German audiences, however, came from his iconic dubbing roles.
He provided the German voices for two immensely popular animated characters: Chef in “South Park” and the news anchor Kent Brockman in “The Simpsons.” These roles solidified his place in German pop culture, demonstrating his incredible range and comedic timing. Donald Arthur passed away in 2016 at the age of 79, leaving behind a legacy of both subtle on-screen presence and unforgettable voice performances.
As we close the final page on this tribute, it’s clear that the magic of “The NeverEnding Story” owes so much to the incredible ensemble of actors and creative minds who brought Fantasia to life. From gruff booksellers to wise heralds, bickering gnomes, flying dragons, and even uncredited cameos, each individual wove a thread into the rich tapestry of this beloved fantasy world. Their performances, whether on screen or through voice, continue to inspire wonder and imagination in new generations.
Though their individual stories may have concluded, their contributions ensure that the spirit of “The NeverEnding Story” truly lives on. They remind us that even as time passes, the power of storytelling and the artists who craft it are indeed, never-ending.
