Kenny Baker was an essential part of the Star Wars saga. Baker truly brought R2-D2 to life, and we all find ourselves in mourning over his death at 81 years old. George Lucas shared the following in tribute to the late actor's passing:
“Kenny Baker was a real gentleman as well as an incredible trooper who always worked hard under difficult circumstances,” said Lucas. “A talented vaudevillian who could always make everybody laugh, Kenny was truly the heart and soul of R2-D2 and will be missed by all his fans and everyone who knew him.”
LucasFilm President Kathleen Kennedy also added, “We’re all saddened to learn of Kenny’s passing,” said Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy. “There is no Star Wars without R2-D2, and Kenny defined who R2-D2 was and is. He will be greatly missed.”
