Kenneth Colley, the British actor who portrayed Admiral Piett in The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, has passed away at 87. According to reports, the actor contracted COVID-19 which developed into pneumonia. The Monty Python's Life of Brian alum died peacefully at his home in Kent, England on Monday.

From Star Wars to Monty Python

Colley's most recognizable role was as the stern Imperial officer Admiral Piett, who commanded Darth Vader's flagship Executor in the original Star Wars trilogy. His character proved so popular with fans that George Lucas brought him back for Return of the Jedi despite initial plans to write the character out. Colley later reprised the role in the 2012 animated special Lego Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out.

In a remarkable career contrast, Colley also portrayed Jesus Christ in the controversial 1979 comedy Monty Python's Life of Brian. His agent Julian Owen noted Colley's extraordinary range: "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."

A Career Spanning Six Decades

Colley's agent confirmed the actor had recently suffered a fall that resulted in a hospital visit for an arm injury. During this period, he contracted COVID-19 which progressed to pneumonia. Owen's statement highlighted Colley's distinguished 60-year career across theater, film and television, including Shakespearean roles like the Duke of Vienna in the BBC's Measure for Measure.

In a 2015 interview with The Daily Mail, Colley shared amusing anecdotes about his casting in The Empire Strikes Back, revealing director Irvin Kershner specifically wanted "someone that would frighten Hitler." The actor's imperial bearing and chiseled features made him perfect for authoritarian roles, yet his talent allowed him to play everything from comedic to dramatic parts with equal skill.