The Star Wars galaxy bid farewell to a cherished figure on December 23, 2024, with the passing of Angus MacInnes.
His family confirmed the news on New Year’s Eve, paying tribute to the actor best known for portraying Jon “Dutch” Vander, affectionately remembered as Gold Leader, in Star Wars: A New Hope (1977). Vander, a pivotal member of the Rebel Alliance’s Gold Squadron, fought valiantly in the assault on the Death Star, sharing iconic scenes with Carrie Fisher’s Princess Leia during the film.
While the character fell in battle during the film, MacInnes reprised the role decades later with a voiceover in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016), a film chronicling the mission to obtain the Death Star plans, serving as a direct prequel to A New Hope.
Beyond Star Wars, his career spanned diverse genres, including the drama Witness (1985) alongside Harrison Ford, the dystopian action film Judge Dredd (1995) – which starred another Star Wars alumnus, James Earl Jones (best known for voicing Darth Vader) – and the Tom Hanks thriller Captain Phillips (2013). His television work included appearances in the beloved show Vikings, showcasing his range as a performer.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, MacInnes’ family described him as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and highlighted his deep connection with Star Wars fans, noting how much he treasured meeting them at conventions and hearing their stories. The family also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from fans around the world, emphasizing that MacInnes’ humility and joy in engaging with the community were defining aspects of his life.
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.
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.
Ever since I first watched A New Hope, I have always loved the Y-wing starship and has been my favourite for many years.
Such a shame we have lost another star from a galaxy far far away
RIP Gold leader, Angus MacInnes
Ever since I first watched A New Hope, I have always loved the Y-wing starship and has been my favourite for many years.
Such a shame we have lost another star from a galaxy far far away
RIP Gold leader, Angus MacInnes https://t.co/M6WIDNOF79 pic.twitter.com/L50QXQdICf
— DevilPunch😈 (@Devilpunch2) December 31, 2024
The Star Wars fandom subsequently also flooded social media with tributes, sharing memories of meeting MacInnes at conventions and celebrating his contributions to the saga. One fan reflected, “Ever since I first watched A New Hope, the Y-wing starship has always been my favorite. Such a shame we’ve lost another star from a galaxy far, far away.” Another wrote, “It was a pleasure meeting him a few years ago. Such a nice man. May he rest peacefully.”
MacInnes leaves behind a legacy marked by memorable performances and genuine connections with those who admired his work. While his presence will be deeply missed, his impact on Star Wars has certainly cemented his place as a beloved figure in a galaxy far, far away.
