By Petr Navovy | Miscellaneous | August 15, 2016 |
By Petr Navovy | Miscellaneous | August 15, 2016 |
Kenny Baker, the British actor who brought to life one of the Star Wars’ series most distinctive and indelible characters passed away over the weekend after a long illness. He was 81.
His co-star and friend, Mark Hamill, paid tribute to him on Twitter:
Goodbye #KennyBaker A lifelong loyal friend-I loved his optimism & determination He WAS the droid I was looking for! pic.twitter.com/rd94OEYaHi
— Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) August 13, 2016
Baker also memorably played parts in The Elephant Man, Flash Gordon, and of course the much beloved classic Time Bandits.
But for many people it will always be his breakthrough performance as the capable half of the droid duo in the Star Wars saga that will remain his landmark achievement.
So, farewell then, R2.
You weren’t afraid to be a shit-stirrer when shit needed stirring.
You always followed your nose even when others questioned your instincts.
Even when things got frightening.
Or just plain annoying/confusing.
You carried on, getting shit done. You were the best of us. We’ll miss you.
——————
Petr Knava lives in London and plays music