Kenny Baker, Who Originated R2-D2 in Star Wars, Has Died at 81

staff@people.com (Dave Quinn)
Updated

After battling a long unnamed illness, Kenny Baker has reportedly died.

The actor, who originated the role of R2-D2 in George Lucas' Star Wars franchise, was just two weeks shy of his 82nd birthday when he passed away, his family confirmed to the BBC.

His agent Johnny Mans told the BBC that the actor had been ill for a couple of years, and had been cared for by his nephew.

Born in Birmingham, England, Baker lived in Preston. A father of two, his wife, Eileen, died in 1993. She was also an actress, co-starring with him in the 1997 film Wombling Free.



Actor Daniel Logan, who played Boba Fett in 2002's Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones, tweeted his condolences upon hearing the news.

"So sad to hear one of my dearest friends passed away," he wrote. "Rest in peace Kenny Baker. Love you. Will miss you!"



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At 3-feet, 8-inches, Logan began acting in 1950 at the age of 16, as as a circus clown. On his website, he recalls turning down the role of R2-D2 initially, telling Lucas "I don't want to be stuck in a robot"

Kenny Baker, Who Originated R2-D2 in Star Wars, Has Died at 81| Death, Star Wars, People Picks
Kenny Baker, Who Originated R2-D2 in Star Wars, Has Died at 81| Death, Star Wars, People Picks

"I got into it and they put the lid on me like a boiled egg," he joked.

Baker last played the iconic character in 2005's Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith. In addition to his Star Wars role, he has also appeared in Time Bandits and Flash Gordon.