Star Wars legend Angus MacInnes has died at age 77.
The actor, best known for his role as Jon ‘Dutch’ Vander in the first film, died ‘peacefully’ surrounded by his family on December 23.
His family wrote on their Facebook page in a statement: ‘To all Angus fans around the world, it is with a broken heart that we write this:
‘Angus MacInnes, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and actor died on December 23, 2024. He left us in peace, surrounded by his family and his love.
‘Angus’s’ 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 was proud to be a part of these stories that continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
Star Wars legend Angus MacInnes died at age 77, just two days before Christmas, surrounded by his family.
The actor was best known for his role as Jon ‘Dutch’ Vander in the first film in the franchise.
‘For Angus, Star Wars fans held a special place in his heart. He loved meeting you at conventions, hearing your stories and sharing your passion for the saga.
‘He was continually humbled, delighted and honored by the admiration and passion of the fans and the convention community.
‘Angus was more than an actor: he was a kind, thoughtful and generous soul who brought warmth and humor to the lives of all who knew him.
“He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and fellow actors, but so will his fans around the world; his family thanks them all.”
‘The MacInnes family Angus MacInnes 1947-2024’
Fans and friends of Angus rushed to the comments to send their condolences and share memories of their encounter with the Star Wars icon following the sad news.
They wrote: ‘I had the privilege of knowing Angus personally, for which I am very grateful. RIP Goldleader’;
‘I’m so sorry for your loss. I had the honor of meeting him in about 2002 and often interacted on his posts. He was very kind. I’ll raise a glass to the Golden Leader, in his wing;
His family wrote on their Facebook page in a statement: “Angus MacInnes, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and actor died on December 23, 2024. He left us in peace, surrounded by his family and love.” .
The statement read: “For Angus, Star Wars fans held a special place in his heart. He loved meeting you at conventions, hearing your stories and sharing your passion for the saga.
Fans and friends of Angus rushed to the comments to send their condolences and share memories of their encounter with the Star Wars icon following the sad news.
Photographed in the 1978 film Force Ten by Navarone LR Edward Fox, Carl Weathers, Angus Macinnes, Harrison Ford, Robert Shaw, Angus Macinnes
‘I had the pleasure of meeting Angus at a convention. Very good gentleman. Condolences to his loved ones;’
‘I’m so sorry for your loss. It was a pleasure meeting Angus at the conventions and he is a lovely man. My deepest condolences to all of you;’
‘It’s sad to hear this news. I looked forward to meeting Mr. MacInnes in the future. I’ve only heard wonderful things. Rest in peace, golden leader;’
‘Distressing! My prayers are with the family. “I had an amazing experience meeting him in Orlando in 2017, he really took the time to talk to all of his fans and make sure they had a special interaction.”
Angus was a Canadian actor famous for his role as Jon “Dutch” Vander (Golden Leader) in Star Wars in 1977.
The actor also played former hockey great Jean “Rosey” LaRose in the comedy Strange Brew.
Angus also appeared in Witness as a corrupt cop, as a gangster searching for stolen cocaine in Atlantic City, and appeared in the BBC Scotland soap opera River City as Sonny.