Star Wars actor Kenneth Colley has died at the age of 87, his agent has announced. The film and television performer is best known for starring in The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi as Admiral Piett, an imperial officer in command of Darth Vader's flagship. He died peacefully at his home in Ashford, Kent, on Monday after contracting Covid and developing pneumonia, his agent Julian Owen said in a statement. "Ken Colley was one of our finest character actors with a career spanning 60 years," Mr Owens said. "Ken continually worked on stage, film and television playing a vast array of characters, from Jesus in Monty Python's Life of Brian to evil and eccentric characters in Ken Russell films, and the Duke of Vienna in Shakespeare's Measure for Measure for the BBC." The statement said Colley had been admitted to hospital with an injured arm after a fall, but he quickly contracted Covid which developed into pneumonia. He died with friends at his bedside, it added. In later years, Colley reprised his role of Admiral Piett when he voiced the character in the 2012 animated Lego production, Lego Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out. He also had parts in international productions including Clint Eastwood's Firefox and the Second World War series War and Remembrance. Mr Owen said Colley's paticipation in Star Wars led him to being invited to conventions and fan events all over the world. "Ken also loved his garden, art collecting and had a passion for fast cars," he added. Colley is also known for playing Jesus in Monty Python's Life of Brian alongside John Cleese, Graham Chapman and Michael Palin. Follow BBC Kent onFacebook, onX, and onInstagram. Send your story ideas tosoutheasttoday@bbc.co.ukor WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.
Star Wars actor Kenneth Colley dies aged 87
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"Star Wars Actor Kenneth Colley Passes Away at 87"
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Kenneth Colley, the esteemed actor known for his role as Admiral Piett in the iconic Star Wars films, has passed away at the age of 87. His agent, Julian Owen, confirmed that Colley died peacefully at his home in Ashford, Kent, after battling complications from Covid-19, which led to pneumonia. Colley’s career spanned over six decades, during which he became recognized for his versatile performances across stage, film, and television. His portrayal of Admiral Piett in both The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi solidified his place in cinematic history. In addition to his work in the Star Wars franchise, he is also remembered for his role as Jesus in Monty Python's Life of Brian, showcasing his ability to navigate a wide range of characters, from the serious to the comedic. Colley’s contributions to the arts earned him invitations to numerous conventions and fan events around the globe, highlighting his lasting impact on fans and the industry alike.
Colley’s impressive body of work included various roles in notable productions, such as Clint Eastwood's Firefox and the acclaimed television series War and Remembrance. He continued to engage with his audience even in later years by reprising his role as Admiral Piett in the animated Lego production, Lego Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out. Beyond his professional achievements, Colley was known for his personal interests, which included a passion for gardening, art collecting, and fast cars. His agent described him as one of the finest character actors of his time, emphasizing Colley’s dedication to his craft and his ability to bring a diverse array of characters to life over his lengthy career. Friends were by his side when he passed, reflecting the close relationships he maintained throughout his life. Colley's legacy will undoubtedly endure through his memorable performances and the joy he brought to audiences worldwide.
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