2. Grand Moff Wilhuff Tarkin
Yes, okay, Star Wars takes place in a galaxy far, far away and there’s no reason to believe that their naming conventions should match our own. However, many other supporting Star Wars characters, such as Dex Jettster, Boba Fett, and Bail Organa, all have names that sound both sci-fi and perfectly acceptable.
Grand Moff Wilhuff Tarkin is not one of those names. “Grand Moff” is actually his title (relating to his standing within the Galactic Empire) but Wilhuff Tarkin is already pretty ridiculous even on its own. It really is the Grand Moff that sets it off, though, with the entire name just pushing the boundary of what’s believable, even for a fantastical world of science fiction and space wizards.
Of course, the character himself is a formidable villain and an interesting figure within Star Wars lore. Peter Cushing’s performance is excellent and subtly creepy, making Tarkin an unforgettable character. Even so, his name – Grand Moff Wilhuff Tarkin – is absolutely ridiculous.