Angus MacInnes, original 'Star Wars' actor, dies at 77: 'We've lost a true legend'
Angus MacInnes, an actor known for his brief but memorable role as Gold Leader in the original "Star Wars" movie, has died. He was 77.
MacInnes' death was confirmed in a statement from his family provided to Paste BN on Tuesday.
"Our hearts are broken," the statement said. "He was at home surrounded by love & we had tremendous support. We thank everyone for the lovely tributes."
MacInnes' longtime manager, Suzann Wade, also said, "Even in his final month, he remained strong, showing that unique humour that could bring light to the darkest situations."
"I'll always cherish his cheeky laugh and his incredible talent as an actor," Wade concluded. "We've lost a true legend. Rest in peace and rise in glory."
MacInnes played Jon "Dutch" Vander, a pilot who in 1977's "Star Wars" led the Gold Squadron during the famous Death Star attack sequence that ends the film. The character is killed in the battle.
Decades later, he appeared in the 2016 prequel, "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story," in which Gold Leader takes part in the final battle as rebels steal the plans to the Death Star. "Rogue One" used old footage of MacInnes, but the actor also provided a new voiceover.
"They asked if I was interested and offered a bunch of money and, after grabbing the cash, I re-voiced the dialogue," he told Inverse in 2017. "That was a fairly odd experience. Sadly, with Carrie (Fisher's) exit, I'm the only actor 'resurrected' in 'Rogue One' who is still here."
MacInnes also appeared as Judge Silver in the 1995 movie "Judge Dredd" starring Sylvester Stallone. His other film credits include "Hellboy," "Captain Phillips," "Eyes Wide Shut" and "Superman II."
A post shared Monday on a Facebook page for MacInnes, which was signed by his family, said that "Star Wars" fans 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 post read. "He was continually humbled, delighted, and honoured by the admiration and passion of the fans and convention community."
"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 — his family thank you all."