'Star Wars' fandom in shock over beloved actor's sudden death

In a shock to Star Wars fans, Nick Joseph, best known for appearing as Major Arhul Hextrophon in Episode IV - A New Hope, has suddenly died, according to the actor's close friend.

Rick Stanley, the late star's friend, shared the sad announcement in a social media post.

"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," the statement read.

But what particularly stunned Star Wars fans was that Stanley painfully revealed his friend, Joseph, was excited for the franchise's upcoming milestone.

"It chokes me up thinking how excited he was anticipating celebrating the 50th anniversary of Star Wars next year," he wrote.

Ending the emotional post, Stanley penned. "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"

Though Star Wars reportedly played a key part in Joseph's career, it was not the only one.

The late actor's career spanned decades, and his credits included appearances in several hit movies and series.

Born in Maidenhead, England, Joseph also starred in a total of six episodes of Doctor Who and EastEnders, in addition to appearing in James Bond movie The Spy Who Loved Me.