We are sad to hear the news about the passing of Angus MacInnes, the Star Wars actor known for his portrayal of Gold Leader in Episode IV: A New Hope and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. The Canadian actor passed away on December 23 at the age of 77, via BBC News.
MacInnes had a storied career in film and television and starred in two other films with Harrison Ford. He was featured in the military drama Force 10 from Navarone, released in 1978, which also featured another Star Wars alumni, the late Carl Weathers.
In 1985, he had a starring role in the Ford film, Witness as a corrupt cop. The movie produced Ford's only Oscar nomination. His other screen credits include Captain Phillips with Tom Hanks and Strange Brew starring fellow Canadian Rick Moranis.
Star Wars' Gold Leader was Angus MacInnes most iconic role
MacInnes' life changed with Star Wars. It was his role as Gold Leader in A New Hope that brought him the most recognition. Filmed in 1977, he helmed the lead pilot role in the groundbreaking movie that would change cinema as one of his Y-Wings attempted the first Death Star trench run in the climax of the motion picture.
Via Deadline, his family shared a statement about MacInnes' time meeting Star Wars fans saying:
"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."
In Star Wars lore, the character was given the name of Jon "Dutch" Vander. The character would make an appearance in the Season 3 episode of Star Wars Rebels, "Secret Cargo." MacInnes would reprise his role in both archival footage and new dialog in 2016 for the film Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. In the film, the character was part of the space battle over the planet of Scarif. MacInnes provided two new lines for the movie. One of which is, "Keep It Tight, and watch out for those towers!"
The whole Star Wars community will mourn the loss of the talented character actor. Many of us have at some point in our lives, for whatever reason, have quoted a New Hope saying, "Stay on Target." All will fondly remember the line, the character, and Angus MacInnes himself. His family shared, "He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and fellow actors but also by his fans around the world."