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Kenneth Colley, the actor known for his role in the Star Wars franchise, has died at the age of 87, his agent has announced.
Colley was widely recognized for portraying Admiral Piett, the Imperial officer commanding Darth Vader’s flagship in “The Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi.”
He passed away peacefully at his home in Ashford, Kent, on Monday, following a bout with Covid-19 that developed into pneumonia, according to a statement from his agent, Julian Owen.
“Ken Colley was one of our finest character actors, with a career spanning six decades,” Mr. Owen stated.
“Throughout his career, Ken consistently worked in theater, film, and television, embodying a diverse range of characters, from Jesus in Monty Python’s ‘Life of Brian’ to the often evil and eccentric figures in Ken Russell’s films, and the Duke of Vienna in Shakespeare’s ‘Measure for Measure’ for the BBC.”
The statement further detailed that Colley had been hospitalized due to an arm injury sustained in a fall, during which he contracted Covid-19, which subsequently led to pneumonia.
He died surrounded by friends, the statement added.
In his later career, Colley revisited his role as Admiral Piett, lending his voice to the character in the 2012 animated Lego production, “Lego Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out.”
He also appeared in international productions, including Clint Eastwood’s “Firefox” and the World War II series “War and Remembrance.”
Mr. Owen noted that Colley’s involvement in Star Wars led to invitations to conventions and fan events worldwide.
“Ken also cherished his garden, art collecting, and harbored a passion for fast cars,” he added.
Colley is also remembered for his portrayal of Jesus in Monty Python’s “Life of Brian,” alongside John Cleese, Graham Chapman, and Michael Palin.
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