Angus MacInnes, ‘Star Wars’ Actor, Dies at 77

Angus MacInnes, an actor most known for his role in 1977’s Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope and 2016’s Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, has died. He was 77.

MacInnes died “peacefully, surrounded by his family and love” on Dec. 23, his family shared in a statement on Facebook. His cause of death wasn’t immediately available.

“His work touched countless lives, and he took great pride in being part of these stories that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide,” the statement read. “Angus was more than an actor—he was a kind, thoughtful, and generous soul who brought warmth and humor into the lives of everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and fellow actors but also by his fans around the world.”

Born on Oct. 27, 1947, in Ontario, Canada, MacInnes went on to pursue a career in acting that spanned multiple decades. He made his first on-screen appearance in 1975’s Rollerball.

His most notable role was in director George Lucas’ 1977 film Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope, which saw him play Gold Leader/Jon “Dutch” Vander. He later reprised his role in 2016’s Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, directed by Gareth Edwards.

“For Angus, the fans of Star Wars held a special place in his heart. He loved meeting you at conventions, hearing your stories, and sharing in your passion for the saga,” the family added in their statement. “He was continually humbled, delighted, and honored by the admiration and passion of the fans and convention community.”

MacInnes’ other acting credits included Space: 1999 (1977), Atlantic City (1980), Outland (1981), The Littlest Hobo (1980-81), Witness (1985), Half Moon Street (1986), Hellbound: Hellraiser II (1988), Sleepers (1991), Roughnecks (1994), Judge Dredd (1995), Space Island One (1998), Eyes Wide Shut (1999), Formula 51 (2001), Hellboy (2004), The Black Dahlia (2006), Vikings (2013) and Captain Phillips (2013).