Kenny Baker, The Original R2-D2, Dead At 81
RIP, one of the most iconic characters in movie history.
It is with a heavy heart that I am reporting on the passing of Kenny Baker, the original R2-D2, who despite his 3 ft, 18 inch stature, helped make a huge impact on cinema with one of the most memorable and iconic characters of them all.
Baker had been suffering for quite some time from "a long illness" according to The Guardian, but was still able to be credited on Star Wars: The Force Awakens as an "R2-D2 Consultant" for newcomer Jimmy Vee.
Originally entering the ragtag bunch of intergalactic companions that made the 1977 original such an overwhelming and unprecedented success, Kenny has been a firm favourite with Star Wars fans ever since, attending many conventions and even Channel 4's "Bring Back Star Wars" reunion show in 2009.
His name will always be synonymous with George Lucas' landmark franchise, but older readers may also know him from Flash Gordon, Time Bandits and The Goonies, too.
Sadly, Baker is the second of the main cast following Alec Guinness to pass away, but with Star Wars going stronger than ever and R2 still being a mainstay in all our hearts, his work will live on forevermore through fans and newcomers alike.
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Leave your own tributes to Kenny Baker in the comments, and let us know your favourite R2-D2 moments!