Khan Bonfils, who appeared in ‘Star Wars: Episode 1 The Phantom Menace’ has died after collapsing during a theatre rehearsal.
The British actor, who was also known as Kan, was rehearsing for ‘Dante’s Inferno’, which was due to open in London this week.
Khan Bonfils
Members of the production’s Craft Theatre company and paramedics fought to save his life but he could not be resuscitated.
Chris Hislop, the company's spokesman, said: “Kan collapsed during a rehearsal and the director Rocky Rodriguez Jr, he performed CPR on location.
“An ambulance was called out but unfortunately he couldn't be resuscitated.
"The entire company are in shock. There is absolutely severe sadness, it is a real tragedy."
The cause of death has yet to be ascertained, he added.
Khan played the Jedi master Saesee Tiin in ‘Star Wars: Episode 1 The Phantom Menace’
A statement from Craft Theatre said: “With great sadness, we announce the death of Kan Bonfils. His sudden loss is a tragedy and he will be sorely missed.”
The actor played Saesee Tiin in the 1999 film ‘Star Wars: Episode 1 The Phantom Menace’, opposite Liam Neeson and Ewan McGregor.
He also starred in 2012's Bond movie ‘Skyfall’, playing a henchman opposite Daniel Craig and was Isagura in 1997's ‘Tomorrow Never Dies’ with Pierce Brosnan.
He also had roles in ‘Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle Of Life’ (2003), ‘Batman Begins’ (2005) and several productions on the West End stage.
Dante's Inferno is expected to continue with another actor from the theatre company replacing Bonfils.
Mr Hislop said: ''It was due to open on Thursday. If things go to plan and if the incoming actor is able to do the job we are hoping to open on Saturday.''
