Farewell To Kenny Baker

British actor Kenny Baker who portrayed Star Wars’ R2-D2 dies aged 81 after a long battle with lung condition.

00:00 15 August 2016

Kenny Baker, the 3ft 8in actor best known for immortalising robot R2-D2 in Star Wars, has died at the age of 81, as confirmed by his family members.

 

The Birmingham-born actor was founded by his nephew and carer, Drew Myserscough on Saturday at his home in Preston, northwest England.

 

His niece confirmed that he had suffered problems with his lungs and had been ill for some time. She added: '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.'

 

Baker received a credit in last year’s Star Wars: The Force Awakens and attended the European premiere in London in December in a wheelchair.

 

Following the news of his passing, his co-stars quickly took to Twitter to pay tribute to the actor.

 

Mark Hammil, who played Luke Skywalker, wrote: 'Goodbye Kenny Baker. A lifelong loyal friend - I loved his optimism and determination.

 

'He WAS the droid I was looking for!'