LONDON, England, Aug. 13, 2016 (Gephardt Daily) — Kenny Baker, the actor who portrayed R2-D2 in the original Star Wars movies, has died at the age of 81.
Baker took on the R2-D2 role back in 1977, and soon became a household name among science fiction fans.
In addition to the original “Star Wars,” Baker went on to star in “The Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi,” as well as the three franchise prequels.
He also landed roles in “Flash Gordon,” “Time Bandits,” “Amadeus,” “The Elephant Man” and “Mona Lisa.”
The 3-foot-8-inch actor began performing in the circus back in 1950, working as a clown and performing pantomime.
Prior to falling ill several years ago, Baker spent time attending “Star Wars” conventions worldwide.
