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An EastEnders and Star Wars actor who starred in a James Bond film and Doctor Who has died.
Nick Joseph 'suddenly passed away', a close friend said, announcing the sad news in a social media post.
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 made appearances at fan events around the world and had planned to appear at the film's 50th anniversary celebrations in 2027.
Mr Joseph also played Bert, the milkman on EastEnders in 2019, which was his last acting role, and had a small part as an armoury officer in the 1977 Bond classic, The Spy Who Loved Me.
The actor's 'best friend' Rick Stanley has paid tribute to him online, describing the news of his death as 'devastating'.
Mr Stanley said: '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.
Actor Nick Joseph shared this AI-generated image on social media of him (centre left) with Star Wars legends Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher and Harrison Ford
Mr Joseph is seen here in the background of the final scene of Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope as Major Arhul Hextrophon
'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'
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.'
Mr Joseph was also described as a 'lovely man' and a 'true legend' by fans.
One said: 'Until the end he lived his life like he always had still planning events doing what he loved being a lovely man a true legend.'
Another wrote: 'I'm so sorry to hear this. So sudden and upsetting. Nick was a wonderful, kind, and fun person to be around.
'Always generous with his time when meeting his fans. Rest in peace, Nick.'
Mr Joseph played Bert, the milkman on EastEnders in 2019 and also had roles in the James Bond classic, The Spy Who Loved Me, Doctor Who and Blake's 7
A third said: 'This is a such a shock I have some amazing memories of Nick such a genuine nice guy gentleman ascending love to his family and friends RIP my friend.'
A fourth wrote: 'The kindest, sweetest man and an incredibly loyal friend. I feel I have lost a brother.
'Wonderful and unique human being who brought goodness and joy to everyone.
Meanwhile a fifth said: '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 - he loved all things Star Wars and Blake's 7.'
English (US) ·