British Actor Kenny Baker, Known for R2-D2 Role, Dies at 81 - CNN

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Kenny Baker, the British actor renowned for portraying R2-D2 in the "Star Wars" franchise, passed away at the age of 81. His niece, Abigail Shield, confirmed that Baker had been suffering from a lung condition for several years. Despite his health challenges and being 3 feet, 8 inches tall, Baker lived longer than he anticipated, having not expected to survive past his teenage years. He died peacefully in his sleep, fulfilling his wish for a tranquil passing.

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http://www.cnn.com/2016/08/13/entertainment/actor-kenny-baker-dies/

(CNN) — Kenny Baker, the British actor who gave life to the droid R2-D2 in the "Star Wars" films, has died at the age of 81, according to his niece, Abigail Shield.

Baker was being looked after by Shield's brother, who found him Saturday morning. Shield said Baker was ill for years with a lung condition.

She also said her uncle -- who was 3 feet, 8 inches tall -- did not expect to "live past his teenage years because he was a 'little person,' so it is pretty amazing he lived this long."

Baker died in his sleep Saturday morning, according to his nephew and caregiver Andrew Myerscough.

That was Baker's wish -- to go peacefully, his nephew said. "I couldn't ask for more."

R2-D2 was perhaps my favorite droid in the Star Wars universe. R2-D2 appeared in every Star Wars movie.

RIP, Kenny Baker.
 
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