Kenneth Colley, the British actor best known for portraying Admiral Piett in The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, has passed away at 87 due to complications from COVID-19 and pneumonia.
Colley's iconic Star Wars character served as the commanding officer aboard Darth Vader's flagship Super Star Destroyer. He later returned to voice the character in the 2012 animated special Lego Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out. Colley also delivered a memorable performance as Jesus in Monty Python's controversial 1979 comedy Life of Brian.
His agent Julian Owen released a statement: "Kenneth Colley was among Britain's most versatile character actors with a remarkable 60-year career. His repertoire ranged from playing Jesus in Monty Python's Life of Brian to intense roles in Ken Russell's films, and his acclaimed portrayal of the Duke of Vienna in the BBC's Measure for Measure."
The actor's health declined rapidly after being hospitalized for a broken arm sustained in a fall. He subsequently contracted COVID-19, which progressed to pneumonia.
According to reports, Colley's character wasn't originally planned for Return of the Jedi. However, George Lucas reinstated Admiral Piett due to the character's unexpected popularity with fans.
Colley once revealed he was cast in The Empire Strikes Back because director Irvin Kershner specifically wanted "someone who could intimidate Hitler." His stern features and commanding presence perfectly matched Kershner's vision for the Imperial officer.
