The Star Wars community bid farewell to a cherished figure on December 23, 2024, as Angus MacInnes, the actor who brought Gold Leader Jon “Dutch” Vander to life, passed away. His family announced the news on New Year’s Eve through a heartfelt statement on Facebook. MacInnes was 75.
Best remembered for his role in Star Wars: A New Hope (1977), MacInnes played a pivotal part as Gold Leader, a member of the Rebel Alliance’s Gold Squadron. Sharing the screen with Carrie Fisher’s Princess Leia, his character was instrumental in the assault on the Death Star, a defining moment in the saga.
Though Vander’s mission ended in tragedy, the character’s legacy endured. MacInnes reprised the role decades later with a voiceover performance in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016), a film that expanded the lore of the Rebel Alliance’s daring efforts to secure the Death Star plans.
Beyond Star Wars, MacInnes’ acting career spanned multiple genres and decades. His filmography included notable roles in Witness (1985) alongside Han Solo actor Harrison Ford, the dystopian action film Judge Dredd (1995), and the critically acclaimed Captain Phillips (2013). He also made a mark on television, appearing in two episodes of the historical drama series Vikings.
The news of MacInnes’ passing was accompanied by a touching message from his family:
“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.”
The announcement did not disclose the cause of death but emphasized the joy and gratitude MacInnes felt for his fans and the Star Wars community.
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
Fans and colleagues took to social media to pay tribute, sharing memories of meeting MacInnes at conventions and expressing their sorrow at his loss. One fan wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, “Ever since I first watched A New Hope, I have always loved the Y-wing starship. Such a shame we have lost another star from a galaxy far, far away. RIP Gold Leader.”
Another shared, “It was a pleasure meeting him a few years ago. Such a nice man. May he rest peacefully.”
MacInnes, a Canadian native, leaves behind a legacy that transcends his roles on screen. His portrayal of Gold Leader, a brave Rebel pilot, remains etched in the hearts of Star Wars fans.
