Star Wars Rebel Pilot Angus McInnes Dies at 77, Also Starred in Vikings

The “Star Wars” community is mourning the loss of Canadian actor Angus MacInnes, who died on December 23 at the age of 77. His family shared the sorrowful news on the eve of New Year’s Eve. He famously played pilot Jon Vander, also known as “Gold Leader,” in “A New Hope” in 1977.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share this with all of Angus’s fans around the world: Angus MacInnes, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and beloved actor passed away on December 23, 2024. He left us peacefully, surrounded by his family and loved ones,” his family said in a Facebook post.

The “Star Wars” Community Grieves

“For Angus, ‘Star Wars’ fans held a special place in his heart. He cherished meeting you at conventions, hearing your stories, and sharing your enthusiasm for the saga. The admiration and passion of the fans and the convention community always made him feel humble, thrilled, and honored,” the family of the deceased emphasized.

Born on October 27, 1947, in Windsor, Ontario, Angus MacInnes began his acting career in 1975 with a small part in Norman Jewison’s “Rollerball.” Beyond his involvement in the George Lucas-created franchise, Angus MacInnes appeared in “Witness” alongside Harrison Ford, “Captain Phillips” with Tom Hanks, the sci-fi film “Judge Dredd,” and Guillermo del Toro’s “Hellboy.” He also had a minor role as a doorman in Stanley Kubrick’s “Eyes Wide Shut.”

Final Role in “Rogue One”

MacInnes also appeared in two episodes of the beloved series “Vikings” in 2013 as Tostig. In 2016, he reprised his voice role as Jon “Gold Leader” Vander in “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” directed by Gareth Edwards.

“His work impacted countless lives, and he was immensely proud to be part of stories that continue to resonate with audiences around the world. Angus was more than an actor; he was a kind, thoughtful, and generous soul who brought warmth and humor to everyone he met.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, fellow actors, and fans globally. His family thanks you all,” the relatives of the actor noted.