SilverWook said:

It's a dick move on Lucasfilm's part if true. Fans will still stand in line for Prowse's autograph after all these years.

Whether somebody else could have played the part is really not an issue. People want to meet the guy who originally did.

I just meant in regards to the royalties. With no face, no voice, and a considerable ammount of doubling for the fight scenes, Prowse was kinda a glorified stand-in. Even Peter Mayhew had eyes showing. Vader's most dramatic moments could have been done with a helmet on a stand.

I agree it sucks he wont be at events.