Udo Kier, star of Red Alert 2 and Kojima's Death Stranding, dies at 81 years old

The German actor Udo Kier, an iconic figure for games fans for his role as Yuri in Red Alert 2 and Command and Conquer: Yuri's Revenge, and for his participation in Hideo Kojima's upcoming title, OD, passed away at 81 years old. The news was confirmed to Variety by his partner, Delbert McBride.

Kier had a remarkable and prolific career, appearing in over 200 films, and was widely recognized for his collaborations with major names such as Andy Warhol, Lars von Trier, and Werner Herzog. Additionally, he appeared in music videos for artists like Madonna, Gwen Stefani, and Korn.

For the gamer community, Kier will always be remembered as the "magnificent/absurd" Yuri, the Transylvanian psychic who usurped control of the Soviet Union and launched an invasion on the United States in strategy games. His eccentric performance was a defining element that helped immortalize the Command and Conquer franchise titles.

More recently, Kier was set to participate in OD, by Hideo Kojima, appearing in the first revelation trailer in 2023. The extent of the work he managed to complete before his passing has not been clarified.

In a tribute published in X, Hideo Kojima mourned the loss: "When we met in Milan at the end of September, he told me how much he was looking forward to the resumption of filming next year. He was full of energy at that time too, making me laugh with his usual 'Udo-isms'. I still can't believe it. Udo was not just an actor. He was truly an 'icon' of his time. We lost a great 'icon'. There will never be another like him. Udo, rest in peace. I will never forget you."

The actor demonstrated a special affection for the gamer universe. In an interview about Red Alert 2, Kier commented: "I am very happy that so many people enjoy the game. And if you really want to see me back, you have the address on the box. Just write to Westwood and say: 'We are not tired! Make another game with him!' And I will return… I am trying to surprise you next time, to do something different, maybe more evil, maybe more annoying. But I still love you."