'Star Wars' Actor Dies After Contracting Covid And Developing Pneumonia

Kenneth Colley, the English actor best known for his portrayal of Admiral Piett in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi," has passed away at the age of 87.

Colley died peacefully on Monday, June 30, in Ashford, Kent, after contracting Covid-19 and developing pneumonia.

His agent of 10 years, Julian Owen, confirmed the news in a statement, noting that Kenneth Colley had been admitted to the hospital after a fall in which he injured his arm, but tragically contracted the virus shortly afterward.

"He passed away peacefully with friends at his bedside," Owen’s statement said. "Ken Colley was one of our finest character actors, with a career spanning 60 years."

Colley is perhaps best remembered for his role as Admiral Piett, an imperial officer in command of Darth Vader’s flagship, in the iconic "Star Wars" trilogy. His character became a fan favorite, despite initially being slated to appear only in "The Empire Strikes Back."

George Lucas, responding to the overwhelming fan interest in Piett, added him to "Return of the Jedi," a decision that Colley later reflected on in interviews.

"Ken’s favorite part was playing Estragon in the stage production of Beckett’s classic Waiting for Godot," his agent added. "Ken's participation in 'Star Wars' led him to being invited to conventions and official fan events all over the World, where he remains one of the best-loved actors from the original trilogy."

Colley recalled landing the role in "Empire" after impressing director Irvin Kershner, who told him he was "looking for someone that would frighten Hitler" and, after their meeting, declared, "Yes, I think you're it."

His calm and commanding performance made Admiral Piett one of the most memorable figures in the "Star Wars" universe.

In later years, Colley reprised his role as Piett when he voiced the character in the 2012 animated Lego production, "Lego Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out."

After hearing the news, fans of the actor took to X (formerly Twitter) to pay tribute.

"May the Force be with you, always," one user said.

"You are immortalized in a galaxy far, far away, and in the hearts of 'Star Wars' fans everywhere," another wrote. "May the Force Be With You."

"Always found Piett and Vader’s relationship interesting as even when Piett failed, Vader let him live," a third expressed. "Rest In Peace, Kenneth Colley."

Someone else said, "Oh man, rest in peace, Kenneth Colley. A phenomenal presence in 'ESB' and 'ROTJ' who shares in some classic scenes with Veers, he’s gonna be sorely missed."

Beyond his role in "Star Wars," Colley’s career spanned a wide variety of stage, film, and television productions.

He was also known for his portrayal of Jesus in the classic "Monty Python's Life of Brian" and played various eccentric and villainous characters in Ken Russell films.

In addition, Colley played the Duke of Vienna in the BBC's "Measure for Measure" and had notable roles in international productions, including Clint Eastwood’s "Firefox" and the World War II series "War and Remembrance."

Outside of his acting career, Colley had a passion for gardening, art collecting, and fast cars.

He will be remembered not only for his immense talent on screen but for his generosity of spirit and his impact on both the "Star Wars" universe and the entertainment industry at large.

Colley’s legacy lives on through his iconic roles and the many fans who continue to celebrate his work. His contribution to film and television will never be forgotten.