Angus MacInnes, Iconic ‘Star Wars’ Actor, Dies At 77

• Angus MacInnes passed away at age 77 on December 23.
• MacInnes was celebrated for his iconic role in ‘Star Wars,’ where his character appeared during the famous Death Star flight.
• He also had a solid career in other titles, including ‘Vikings,’ ‘Strange Brew,’ and more, but he was particularly close to and fond of the ‘Star Wars’ community.

 

Actor Angus MacInnes has passed away. He was 77 years old when he died on December 23. News of his passing comes from a statement by MacInnes’ family shared to Fox News Digital, along with his longtime manager Suzann Wade. He was surrounded by loved ones when he passed.

Angus MacInnes was an actor best known for his role as Jon Vander in 1977’s Star Wars: Episode IV: A New Hope. His character is a Rebel Alliance pilot who leads the Gold Squadron during the iconic Death Star assault. Beyond Star Wars, MacInnes has appeared in films like Hellboy and Judge Dredd and TV series like Vikings, but his role in the original Star Wars film remains his most iconic and enduring contribution to pop culture.

Mourning the passing of pop culture icon Angus MacInnes

 

MacInnes’ family announced his passsing on social media. “To all Angus’ fans around the world, with breaking hearts we write this,” the statement began. “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.”

It continues, “Angus’ career spanned decades, with unforgettable roles in films such as Star Wars: A New Hope (as Gold Leader, Jon “Dutch” Vander), Witness, Judge Dredd, Captain Phillips, and many others. His work touched countless lives, and he took great pride in being part of these stories that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.”

Not just an actor, but as much a fan as the viewers

Angus MacInnes was born on October 27, 1947, in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. In much closer galaxies, his solid acting career would see him play old hockey star Jean “Rosey” LaRose in Strange Brew, a corrupt police officer in Witness, and a gangster hunting down some hard drugs in Atlantic City.

But through it all, according to his family, Angus loved Star Wars as much as all the fans.

“For Angus, the fans of Star Wars held a special place in his heart,” his family further wrote. “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.”

Finally, they penned, “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.”

Rest in peace, Angus MacInnes.