Kenneth Colley, the well-known English actor famous for playing Admiral Piett in the beloved Star Wars movies, has died at the age of 87, just like many legends of the movies. His agent confirmed that Colley passed away peacefully on Monday, June 30, at his home in Ashford, Kent, after struggling with COVID-19, which later turned into pneumonia. The experienced actor, whose career lasted an impressive sixty years, appeared in many films and TV shows, leaving a lasting impression on audiences around the world.
As reported by The Independent, Colley’s death followed a difficult period that started with a bad fall, injuring his arm and requiring hospital treatment. While in the hospital, he caught COVID, which quickly became pneumonia. Despite these struggles, he died with friends at his side, bringing an end to a life full of achievements in acting.
His agent emphasized that Colley was one of the best character actors of his time, known for his steady work in different types of roles and his skill in bringing many different characters to life. He said, “Ken continually worked on stage, film and television playing a vast array of characters, from Jesus in Monty Python’s Life of Brian to evil and eccentric characters in Ken Russell films, and the Duke of Vienna in Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure for the BBC.”
Another beloved Star Wars actor dies
Colley’s most famous role was undoubtedly Admiral Piett, the Imperial officer who led Darth Vader’s flagship in The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. It is sad that both the actor for Vader and his Admiral are now dead. This important role secured his place in movie history and made him a favorite among Star Wars fans. Because of his connection to the series, he was often invited to fan conventions and official events worldwide, where he remained one of the most beloved actors from the original movies. His interactions with fans showed just how much people admired his performance as the strict but ultimately loyal Imperial officer.
Outside of Star Wars, Colley’s talent was clear in many other projects. He famously played Jesus in Monty Python’s comedy Life of Brian, proving his ability to take on very different kinds of roles. He also became known for his parts in Ken Russell’s films, where he often played characters described as both evil and eccentric, showing his wide range as an actor. His classical training and skill were evident in his performance as the Duke of Vienna in Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure for the BBC. This role demonstrated his ability to handle complex theater work.
Kenneth Colley (7 December 1937 – 30 June 2025) R.I.P pic.twitter.com/AzJ7KKQfMZ
—Classic British TV
(@Classicbritcom) July 3, 2025
His international career included major productions like Clint Eastwood’s Cold War thriller Firefox, where he acted alongside the famous actor and director. He also appeared in the large-scale American World War II series War and Remembrance, adding to its grand story.
In later years, Colley returned to his Star Wars roots by voicing Admiral Piett in the 2012 animated Lego movie Lego Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out, entertaining a new wave of fans. More recently, he appeared in popular TV shows like Holby City and Peaky Blinders, and he also had a small role in a Doctor Who special, proving he remained active in acting even later in life.
Kenneth Colley’s death marks the loss of a truly outstanding character actor whose long career and unique presence will be remembered fondly by fans and fellow actors alike.
