Stars pay tribute to Kenny Baker
Tributes have been paid to Kenny Baker following his death at the age of 83.
The ‘Star Wars’ actor – who played R2-D2 in the movies – died on Saturday (08.13.16) following a long illness and stars have rushed to pay tribute to the 3ft 8in actor.
‘Lord of the Rings’ star Dominic Monaghan tweeted: "You left your legendary marks #KennyBaker #rip to a lovely gent and a fantastic legacy. @starwars."
Filmmaker Edgar Wright wrote on his Twitter account: "RIP R2D2. Farewell Fidget, Time Bandit. Goodbye Mister Kenny Baker."
Director Kyle Newman added: "RIP KENNY BAKER – a small man, but no small gentleman."
Comedian Ted Robbins wrote: "So sad to hear news of death of old friend Kenny Baker -a great pro with a big heart! God Bless Pal."
And actress Linda Lusardi said: "So sad Kenny Baker died last night. He was R2D2 I was lucky enough to work with him for many years RIP lovely man."
Kenny was diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease nine years ago and Drew Myerscough, his nephew and carer, also paid tribute to the late star.
According to the Daily Mirror, he said: "I’ve lost my best friend. My Uncle Kenny might only have been 3ft 8in but to me he was always 6ft tall.
"I went everywhere with him and when he had a gig, I looked after the sound.
"He did a turn at a nursing home about 15 years ago and on the way home in the car, he told me that going into a nursing home was his ultimate fear.
"I told him that as long as I had breath in my body I’d make sure that didn’t happen.
"So when he got sick, I looked after him and he thanked me every day."
Kenny’s wife Eileen, who also had dwarfism, died over 20 years ago and Kenny is survived by sons Christopher, 43, and Kevin, 41, who did not inherit the condition, and seven grandchildren.
