Star Wars and EastEnders actor Nick Joseph has died "suddenly" aged 60. A close friend paid tribute to the late star, who also appeared in a James Bond movie, as they confirmed the tragic news on social media.
Friend's tribute
Rick Stanley, who was apparently Nick's 'best friend', described the news of his death as "devastating". He wrote: "I received very sad news yesterday from Nick Joseph's wife Dee that Nick had suddenly passed away. Steph and I are devastated hearing the news! I can't believe I've lost my best friend. Steph and I have had many adventures over the years with Nick and Dee including Nick and I organising four Star Wars shows in that time. It chokes me up thinking how excited he was anticipating celebrating the 50th anniversary of Star Wars next year. Steph and I send love and prayers to Dee and family at this very sad time. Rest in the force Major Arhul Hextrophon my dear friend. Until we meet again."
Family and fan reactions
A relative added: "He lived life to the full right up to the last minute. Always joking right until the end. His life on this earth may have ended suddenly but our memories of him as a loving husband, father, step-father, grandad and uncle will always live on. And I'm sure he's smiling down and planning tricks on us for our time in the next world."
Fans also posted heartbroken tributes as one commented: "So sorry to hear this Rick, this is awful news. My sincere condolences to Dee and their family." Another added: "This is a shock! I was speaking to Nick not even two weeks ago at the Northern Horizon (Blake’s 7) convention in Newcastle. He seemed in such good spirits and health. Lovely man, kind and funny." A third said: "Devastating news. So unexpected. It was only recently that Nick had asked me to attend a show with him. He had so much planned. My sincere condolences to Dee and his family and friends."
Career highlights
The actor was best-known for his portrayal of Major Arhul Hextrophon, a medal bearer in the award ceremony at the end of Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. He also had a small part as an armoury officer in the 1977 Bond classic, The Spy Who Loved Me. His most recent credit was on BBC soap EastEnders back in 2019, where he played Bert the milkman.
