An Appreciation Upon the Passing of Kenneth Colley (1938–2025)

Kenneth Colley enjoyed a distinguished career across stage, film, and television for six decades. He died peacefully on Monday, 30 June 2025, in Ashford, Kent, at age 87. He suffered an arm injury after a fall and then contracted COVID-19, which progressed into pneumonia. However, he remained a consummate professional until the end, with friends at his side.

Inspector Morse

Among his many roles, Colley’s performance as Detective Chief Inspector Patrick Dawson in “Second Time Around” (Series 5, Episode 1) stands out. Originally broadcast on 20 February 1991, the episode reunites Dawson—an Oxford colleague turned CID officer—with Morse when a former deputy police commissioner is murdered and a missing memoir chapter resurfaces. Colley gave Dawson both world-worn authority and underlying vulnerability. Consequently, the character added emotional depth to the mystery.

Moreover, his scenes opposite John Thaw highlighted layers of friendship and professional loyalty. Although Dawson appears only once, Colley’s portrayal left a lasting impression. Fans still cite it as one of the series’ most affecting guest roles.

Other Notable Roles

Although Star Wars brought him international fame as Admiral Piett, Colley shone across many genres. For example, he played Jesus in Terry Jones’s Life of Brian (1979) with quiet dignity and subtle humor. Likewise, he portrayed eccentric characters in Ken Russell films such as The Missionary (1982) and Crimes of Passion (1984). Furthermore, he tackled Shakespeare on the BBC, notably as the Duke of Vienna in Measure for Measure (1984).

In addition, Colley appeared in Clint Eastwood’s Firefox (1982) and the miniseries War and Remembrance (1988–89). Then in 2012, he reprised Admiral Piett in Lego Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out, delighting a new generation of fans.

Theater and Legacy

Colley never abandoned the stage. In 2014, he starred as Estragon in Waiting for Godot at London’s Cockpit Theatre, which remained his favorite late-career role. Beyond acting, he loved gardening, collected art, and pursued fast cars with enthusiasm.

Ultimately, Kenneth Colley leaves a void in both the British crime-drama community and the galaxy far, far away. He inspired close friends and countless viewers with his remarkable body of work. His portrayal of Detective Chief Inspector Dawson continues to demonstrate his enduring craft and the depth he brought to every role.

Sources: The Independent, RTÉ Entertainment