R2-D2 Actor Kenny Baker Passes Away At 83

By Shakiel Mahjouri. Published: 13 Aug 2016 1:13 PM Last updated: 14 Aug 2016 4:52 PM

May the force be with you, Kenny Baker.

The British actor passed away at the age of 83 after fighting a long illness. Baker is legendary among “Star Wars” fans for his role as the ever-beloved R2-D2.

Baker’s niece, Abigail Shield, elaborated on her uncle’s condition in a statement to The Guardian: “He had problems with his lungs and was often in a wheelchair. He was very poorly for a long time. He was asked to go out to LA for the new ‘Star Wars’ premiere but he was told he was too ill to travel. Luckily he did manage to meet George Lucas again when he came to Manchester.”

Shield also spoke fondly of Baker’s time on earth: “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.”

Baker had the pleasure of watching his legacy endure, catching the premiere of “The Force Awakens” in London.

He also played roles in classic films like “Flash Gordon”.