Angus MacInnes who played Gold Leader has died at age 77 (Picture: Lucasfilm)
Angus MacInnes who was best known for playing Jon ‘Dutch’ Vander / Gold Leader in the Star Wars franchise has died at the age of 77.
The Canadian actor was best known for his work in the first Star Wars movie A New Hope, and also appearing in the 2016 film Rogue One.
The late actor’s family confirmed in a statement on social media that he died two days before Christmas.
‘To all Angus’ fans around the world, with breaking hearts we write this: Angus MacInnes, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and actor died on 23rd of December 2024. He left us peacefully, surrounded by his family and love.’
His family remembered his decade-spanning career and said: ‘His work touched countless lives, and he took great pride in being part of these stories that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.’
His family also emphasised the joy that MacInnes found in the Star Wars community: ‘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.
‘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. The MacInnes Family,’ read the post on Facebook.
The actor also appeared in Flight of Fury in 2007 (Picture: Sony Pics/Everett/REX/Shutterstock)
Galactic Productions also confirmed: ‘We’re saddened to confirm the passing of Angus MacInnes, best known as Gold Leader in Star Wars A New Hope. May he rest in peace.’
The actor also appeared in the 2013 TV series Vikings and movies including Eyes Wide Shut, Captain Phillips and Hellboy in 2004 as Sergeant Whitman.
Fans have remembered the late actor on social media, praising him as ‘friendly’ and incredibly ‘kind’.
‘Sad to see the news that actor Angus Macinnes has passed away at the age of 77. Best known for Gold Leader in the original Star Wars. I met Angus when he came to comic con & he was such a nice man, we spent ages talking about Star Wars & his role in Hellraiser. #starwars RIP,’ said 123LSM123 on X.
The actor also appeared in the film Atlantic City (Picture: CBS via Getty Images)
‘I met him once at SWC 2017. I gave him a Gold Squad pin and thanked him for coming to the event. He was an incredibly kind and friendly person. Rest in peace MTFBWY,’ said Stefan Hurst on Facebook.
‘He will be greatly missed, I looked forward to seeing him at events every year, he always had a smile and a handshake, and was always genuinely pleased to meet with his fans,’ said Scott McNair.
‘One of the friendliest people I’ve met on the convention circuit who always made time to chat with the fans. It was a real delight to see him reprise his iconic role as Gold Leader in Rogue One back in 2016. Condolences to his family and friends during this sad time,’ said Arron Hadfield-Tierney.
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