Yoda () is a fictional character in the "Star Wars" universe, first appearing in the 1980 film "The Empire Strikes Back". He is a small, green humanoid alien who is powerful with the Force and served as Grandmaster of the Jedi Order. In "The Empire Strikes Back", Yoda was voiced and puppeteered by Frank Oz, who reprised the role in "Return of the Jedi", the prequel trilogy, and the sequel trilogy. Outside of the films, the character has been mainly voiced by Tom Kane, starting with the 2003 "" animated television series. Yoda has since become an iconic figue in popular culture due to his distinct pattern of speech and role as a wise mentor.