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RIPKenny Baker, Actor Who Played R2-D2 in ‘Star Wars,’ Has Died at Age 81

Rest in peace, Kenny Baker.

The actor — most known for his role as R2-D2 in the Star Wars films — sadly died on Saturday, Aug. 13 after battling a long illness in his lungs, his niece Abigail Shield confirmed to The Guardian. He was 81-years-old.

kenny baker getty images

Kenny in December 2015.

“It was expected, but it’s sad nonetheless. He had a very long and fulfilled life. He brought lots of happiness to people and we’ll be celebrating the fact that he was well loved throughout the world. We’re all very proud of what he achieved in his lifetime,” Shield told the news outlet.

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Throughout his more than 50 years in showbiz, the 3 ft. 8 in. tall British star additionally starred in The Elephant Man, Time Bandits, Willow, Flash Gordon, Amadeus and Labyrinth. Kenny — who lost his wife, Eileen Baker, in 1993 — is survived by his two sons, Kevin Baker and Christopher Baker.

Click through the gallery below to see the original trilogy Star Wars cast then and now!