Angus MacInnes, Actor Who Played 'Gold Leader' Pilot in “Star Wars”, Dies at 77

Angus MacInnes, the actor best known for playing a spaceship pilot in 1977's original Star Wars movie, has died. He was 77.

His family announced his death in a statement on the actor's Facebook page Monday, Dec. 30, confirming that MacInnes died on Dec. 23. A cause of death was not listed.

"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," the family wrote.

MacInnes was born in Ontario, Canada, on Oct. 27, 1947, according to The Hollywood Reporter. He first appeared in an onscreen role in 1975 when he made an uncredited appearance in Rollerball and the television series Play for Today.

Star Wars: A New Hope marked his sixth onscreen role. MacInnes was among a number of actors who portrayed spaceship pilots alongside Mark Hamill's Luke Skywalker in the movie's Death Star battle.

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As the actor's family noted, MacInnes was also known for roles in Witness, Judge Dredd and the 2013 Tom Hanks thriller Captain Phillips, among others in a career that spanned about 40 years.

"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 wrote in the statement.

"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 honored by the admiration and passion of the fans and convention community."

Related: Remembering the Stars Wars Actors We've Lost Through the Years

MacInnes' last film appearance came in 2016's Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, in which his character Jon "Dutch" Vander, a.k.a. "Gold Leader," had a voice cameo.

"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," his family wrote. "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."

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