R2-D2 Actor Kenny Baker Dies at 81

The Guardian reports today that Kenny Baker, the man who brought Star Wars' R2-D2 to life, has died after a long illness. He was 81.

The 3' 8" actor played the iconic droid character in the 1977 original Star Wars film, and reprised the role for The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, along with the three prequels.

Baker's niece, Abigail Shield, provided a statement to The Guardian on Baker's passing.

"It was expected, but it's sad nonetheless," she said. "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."

Gizmodo reports that Baker was a consultant on 2015's record-breaking The Force Awakens, despite being in poor health. He was at a European red carpet event for the movie, but couldn't make it to the premiere in Los Angeles.

In addition to the Star Wars movie, Baker had parts in movies like The Elephant Man and Flash Gordon.

[CORRECTION] An earlier version of this story stated Baker died at age 83. GameSpot regrets the error.