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Kenny Baker is dead. The actor, best known for playing R2D2 in the Star Wars films, died Saturday at age 81. Celebrities are now paying tribute to the late performer. See stars’ reactions to his death below.
Baker, who had dwarfism, was less than 4 feet tall, allowing him to fit inside the iconic robotic machine that was designed for R2D2 in the Star Wars franchise. The English star portrayed the character in the original 1977 film, along with The Empire Strikes Back, Return Of The Jedi, Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones, and Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith. And though his face wasn’t seen on camera, he was an integral part of the movie family.
Original Star Wars star Mark Hamill tweeted, “Goodbye #KennyBaker A lifelong loyal friend-I loved his optimism & determination He WAS the droid I was looking for!”Ewan McGregor, who starred as Jedi Obi-Wan Kenobi in the prequel trilogy, tweeted, “So sorry to hear about this. It was lovely working with Kenny.” In addition, famous fans of the films are commenting on Baker’s passing, too.
Josh Gad, for instance, wrote on Twitter, “#KennyBaker is gone. #RIPR2D2 You will live on in this galaxy for years to come!” “May the force be with you, Kenny Baker. #StarWars #RogueOne,” said Alyssa Milano. Orlando Jones posted, ‘Beep-bee-bee-boop-bee-doo-weep’ – That’s droid speak for RIP Kenny Baker #R2D2.” Edgar Wright also remarked, “RIP R2D2. Farewell Fidget, Time Bandit. Goodbye Mister Kenny Baker.”
Kevin Smith shared, “Rest in Peace @starwars legend #KennyBaker – whose name I learned at age 7 because he brought #R2D2 to life. Feels like losing family…” Rahul Kohli commented, “You brought life to one of my favourite characters, thank you Kenny Baker. Rest in peace.” Kyle Newman wrote, “RIP KENNY BAKER — a small man, but no small gentleman. #starwars #R2D2.” And CM Punk tweeted, “Kenny Baker rest in power. #R2D2forever.”
Duff Goldman expressed, “Aw man, Kenny Baker passed away today. #R2D2.” Dominic Monaghan said, “You left your legendary marks #KennyBaker #rip to a lovely gent and a fantastic legacy. @starwars” Guillermo del Toro wrote, “A great one- And, like Napoleon, his stature was measured not from head-to-ground but head-to-sky. A brilliant man.”
Baker’s death comes just two days after the new trailer for Rogue One: A Star Wars Story was released. Gossip Cop offers condolences to all of his family, friends, and fans.
