Star Wars Villain Kenneth Colley Passes Away at 87
Kenneth Colley, a British actor best known for his portrayal of an antagonist in teh Star Wars franchise, has died at the age of 87. The news was confirmed on July 3rd, following complications from a COVID-19 infection.Colley passed away on June 30th in Ashford, Kent, after being hospitalized for a broken arm sustained in a fall. He subsequently contracted the virus and developed pneumonia.According to his agent, Julian Owen, the actor died peacefully with friends by his side.While recognized by many for his role as Admiral Piett – a key figure aboard Darth Vader’s flagship in The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Return of the Jedi (1983) – Colley enjoyed a diverse and extensive 60-year career spanning film, theater, and television.He also appeared in productions like Firefox: The Final Weapon, Peaky Blinders, and Doctor Who: The Eighth Doctor Adventures.
Owen described Colley as “one of the best cast actors,” highlighting the breadth of his talent and memorable performances, including his portrayal of Jesus in Monty python’s Life of Brian.Despite his involvement in the hugely popular Star Wars saga, Colley reportedly held a particular fondness for his stage work. His favorite role was that of Estragon in samuel beckett’s Waiting for Godot, a production he performed in London in 2014.
beyond acting, Colley was a man of refined tastes, with a passion for gardening, art collecting, and fast cars.