Kenny Baker is an English actor and musician. Best known for the role of the android R2D2 in the Star Wars movie series, one of two actors who appeared in all six films of the original saga. He also worked with such famous directors as David Lynch and Terry Gilliam. He suffered from dwarfism, the growth of the actor was only 112 centimeters.
Childhood and youth
Kenny Baker was born on August 24, 1934 in the city of Birmingham. Real name is Kenneth George Baker. Both parents are of normal height. After their divorce, Kenny moved to his father and stepmother in Hastings.
In 1951, at the invitation of a casual passerby, he joined the theater troupe, consisting of dwarfs. Later he toured with the circus. He skated well and participated in several ice shows. Together with actor Jack Purvis, he formed a comic duet and performed in nightclubs.
star Wars
Kenny Baker’s most famous work is the Android R2D2 in the Star Wars franchise. In his own words, at first he rejected the proposal of the young director George Lucas. Also played one of the Ewoks in the sixth episode of the saga.
Kenny Baker and Anthony Daniels, who plays another C3PO android, are the only actors to appear in all six franchise series. Nevertheless, the men did not always get along with each other, Baker later claimed that Daniels was rude to his surroundings and unbearable.
In the seventh episode of Star Wars, the actor was unable to take part due to his old age and health problems, but acted as a special consultant for the film crew.
Other jobs
In addition to his most famous role, Baker managed to play many bright characters. Among the most notable feature films with Kenny Baker are Terry Gilliam's comedy The Bandits of the Time, Flash Gordon, the historical drama Elephant Man and the Oscar-winning movie Amadeus. He continued to work with Jack Purvis on many projects.
