Kenny Baker, who played the “Star Wars” droid R2-D2 – one of the most beloved characters in the space-opera franchise – died August 13 in Preston, England.
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The 3 ft 8 in actor played the lovable Artoo in all six original Star Wars movies. Baker and Shield’s father Ian grew up in Birmingham She said: “It was expected, but it’s sad nonetheless”.
Star Wars supremo George Lucas said: “Kenny Baker was a real gentleman as well as an incredible trooper who always worked hard under difficult circumstances”. She noted to The Guardian newspaper that his nonspeaking role in the enormously successful Star Wars franchise “brought lots of happiness to people”. “We’re all very proud of what he achieved in his lifetime”.
In addition to the “Star Wars” films, Baker appeared in the 1980 sci-fi film “Flash Gordon” and director Terry Gilliam’s 1981 fantasy film “Time Bandits“, and more dramatic films like “Amadeus” and “The Elephant Man“. There is no ‘Star Wars’ without R2-D2, and Kenny defined who R2-D2 was and is.
Baker appeared in Star Wars and both of its sequels, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.
Baker died at home in bed on Saturday morning, prompting an outpouring of praise from people who described “a one-off” and a “loyal friend”.
His agent told the Press Association on Saturday, “He will be sadly missed”. He was very poorly for a long time. Farewell Fidget, Time Bandit.
Earlier today, news broke that Kenny Baker passed away at the age of 83. Shield said Baker had been ill for the past two years with a lung condition.
Baker suffered from chest problems in his later years and was confined to a wheelchair more recently, but he would still sign autographs, Mans says.
Comedian Ted Robbins wrote: “So sad to hear news of death of old friend Kenny Baker -a great pro with a big heart! I had to go around to his house and persuade him”. “He was part of a double act called the Mini-Tones, his partner being Jack Purvis, who sadly died after an accident with his vehicle”, said Barker’s agent and lifelong friend Johnny Mans.
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Kenny’s wife Eileen, who also had dwarfism, died over 20 years ago and Kenny is survived by sons Christopher, 43, and Kevin, 41, who did not inherit the condition, and seven grandchildren.
