STAR WARS Star Kenny Baker Dies, R2-D2 Actor Was 81 Years Old 

Kenny Baker, the diminutive actor who played R2-D2 in the first six Star Wars films has died at the age of 81. According to The Guardian, Baker was suffering from a long-term illness when he passed away at his home in Preston, England.

Baker, who was 3ft 8in tall was cast by George Lucas to take on the role of the little droid in his 1977 blockbuster, continuing in the role for its sequel and prequels. Sadly, he was too ill to take part in the recent film, The Force Awakens. He also had parts in iconic ‘80s films The Elephant Man, Time Bandits and Flash Gordon.

Kenny Baker’s work in Star Wars was small but pivotal (no pun intended) and he helped make the role of R2-D2 a firm fan favourite. This is sad news.

Source: The Guardian