For actor Kenny Baker, being 3’8” tall has never been an impediment. In fact, he has used his lack of vertical growth to his advantage, carving out a happy life and successful career that culminated in playing one of film’s most recognizable and adored characters: the petulant droid R2-D2 in all six “Star Wars” movies. Unlike Anthony Daniels, who played his stiffly erudite pal C-3PO, Baker had a viable career prior to “Star Wars,” appearing on stage and in film. Even without the 800 pound gorilla on his resume, Baker would have made a good living as an actor.

Born in Solihull, England and