Some sad news today, with the announcement that British actor Kenny Baker – famed for portraying the lovable droid R2-D2 in the Star Wars saga – has passed away aged 81 after a long illness.
The 3 ft 8 in actor began his showbusiness career as part of a theatrical group of dwarves, and also spent time working in the circus and as part of the comedy act the Minitones before being cast as the man inside R2-D2 in Star Wars.
Baker returned as R2-D2 in The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi (where he also portrayed the Ewok Paploo) and all three prequel films, while he was also credited as a consultant on Star Wars: The Force Awakens after handing over the role of Artoo to Jimmy Vee.
In addition to Star Wars, Baker also appeared in the likes of The Elephant Man, Time Bandits, Willow, Flash Gordon and Labyrinth.
Originally published August 13, 2016. Updated October 24, 2022.
