‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ Actors Who Have Passed Away

The ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ franchise has captivated audiences worldwide since its debut in 2003 with its blend of high seas adventure and supernatural lore. Over the course of five films the series featured a vast ensemble of talented performers who brought iconic characters to life. While the legacy of the films continues to endure several beloved actors from the production have unfortunately passed away since their appearances on screen. Their contributions helped shape the unique world of Captain Jack Sparrow and his fellow swashbucklers.

David Bailie

David Bailie played the role of Cotton who was the mute pirate with a loyal parrot in the first three films of the series. He brought a great deal of physical comedy and charm to the character who communicated through his colorful bird companion. Bailie died on March 6, 2021 at the age of 83 after a long and successful career in film and television. His performance as one of the original members of the Black Pearl crew made him a fan favorite among the audience. The actor was also well known for his work in the ‘Doctor Who’ series and various theater productions.

Richard Griffiths

Richard Griffiths took on the role of King George II in the fourth film ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides’. He depicted the British monarch as a man obsessed with finding the Fountain of Youth before the Spanish fleet could claim it. Griffiths passed away on March 28, 2013 at the age of 65 following complications after heart surgery. He was widely celebrated for his extensive work in British theater and for his recurring role in the ‘Harry Potter’ series. His portrayal of the king provided a grounded political backdrop for the supernatural quest of Captain Jack Sparrow.

David Warner

David Warner appeared in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales’ as a high ranking officer within the British Royal Navy. He was a highly respected English actor with a career spanning several decades across stage and screen. Warner passed away on July 24, 2022 at the age of 80 from a cancer related illness. Throughout his life he earned acclaim for his versatility in both heroic and villainous roles in many classic films. His inclusion in the fifth installment of the pirate franchise added a level of gravitas to the maritime setting.

Sergio Calderón

Sergio Calderón portrayed the Pirate Lord Captain Vallenueva in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End’. He was a veteran actor known for his roles in major Hollywood productions and his distinctive screen presence. Calderón passed away on May 31, 2023 at the age of 77 due to natural causes. His character represented the Spanish contingent of the Brethren Court during the pivotal meeting of pirate leaders. He remains a memorable part of the ensemble that expanded the lore of the high seas.

Trevor Goddard

Trevor Goddard played the character Grapple who served as a crew member aboard the cursed Black Pearl in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl’. He was an English actor who initially gained fame for his role as Kano in the ‘Mortal Kombat’ movie. Goddard died on June 7, 2003 at the age of 40 shortly before the first pirate film was released in theaters. His character was part of the undead crew that pursued the protagonists under the command of Captain Barbossa. The actor was known for his athletic build and intense screen performances throughout his career.

Gregory Itzin

Gregory Itzin played the role of the Tax Collector in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales’. He was a highly acclaimed American actor best known for his intense performances in television dramas. Itzin passed away on July 8, 2022 at the age of 74 due to complications during surgery. His appearance in the pirate franchise was one of his final film roles before his death. He left behind a significant legacy in the entertainment industry after decades of memorable work.

Christopher Adamson

Christopher Adamson played the character Jimmy Legs who was the boatswain aboard the Flying Dutchman in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest’ and ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End’. He was a prolific character actor often cast in roles that required a menacing or unique physical appearance. Adamson passed away on January 17, 2017 at the age of 71. His work as part of Davy Jones’ crew involved extensive prosthetic makeup to depict a man merging with sea life. He was a staple in British cinema and television for many years before his death.

Derrick O’Connor

Derrick O’Connor appeared in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest’ as an old man who encounters the main characters during their journey. He was an Irish actor who often worked with director Terry Gilliam and appeared in various high profile action movies. O’Connor passed away on June 29, 2018 at the age of 77 from organ failure. He was recognized for his character work and his ability to bring depth to smaller supporting roles. His presence in the second film contributed to the gritty atmosphere of the pirate world.

Jack Axelrod

Jack Axelrod made an appearance in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest’ as an old man during one of the early sequences of the film. He was a veteran character actor who gained recognition for his long running role on the soap opera ‘General Hospital’. Axelrod passed away on November 28, 2023 at the age of 93 from natural causes. His lengthy career included numerous guest appearances on popular television shows and several feature films. His brief but memorable presence contributed to the varied cast of the second installment in the series.

James Ellis

James Ellis appeared in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides’ as the character Pelegro. He was a prominent Northern Irish actor known for his long standing role in the police procedural series ‘Z Cars’. Ellis passed away on March 8, 2014 at the age of 82 following a stroke. He had a distinguished career that spanned over fifty years in the entertainment industry. His role in the fourth film added to the diverse cast that populated the world of Captain Jack Sparrow.

Please share your favorite memories of these talented performers in the comments.