Irvin Kershner, director of The Empire Strikes Back, has passed away at his home following a long illness.

The WWII vet taught film at the University Of Southern California before picking up the megaphone for Stakeout on Dope Street in 1958 and carving out a solid if sparse CV. He was most active in the ‘70s, building to his superlative entry in George Lucas’ iconic space opera.

The director's other films include The Eyes of Laura Mars, Never Say Never Again and RoboCop 2.

He wasn’t a prolific filmmaker but Kersh’s hand in making the best sequel ever made will never be forgotten. We loved him. He knew.