Hollywood mourns the loss of Kenny Baker, the actor who played R2-D2 in “Star Wars”. CBS News confirms that Baker, born in Birmingham, England, on August 24, 1934 (81 years old) died on Saturday, after a long illness.
The 3 ft. 8 inches actor shot to fame when he first played the beloved Star Wars character in 1977, and reprised his role for 1980’s The Empire Strikes Back and 1983’s Return of the Jedi, as well as the three prequel films from 1999 to 2005. Baker also served as consultant on 2015’s The Force Awakens.
According to CBS News, Baker wasn’t expected to live past puberty because of his size. After weathering his parents’ divorce and his father’s death, he entered show business as a member of Burton Lester’s Midgets, and later joined the circus and performed in ice shows. He also worked with comedians Dave Allen, Dick Emery and the Goodies.
His niece, Abigail Shield, paid tribute to her uncle. She told the Guardian: “It was expected, but it’s sad nonetheless. He had a very long and fulfilled life. He brought lots of happiness to people and we’ll be celebrating the fact that he was well loved throughout the world. We’re all very proud of what he achieved in his lifetime.”
May his soul rest in peace as THJ extends condolences to his family and loved ones
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