Veteran Hollywood actor Joby Baker who is best known for his memorable performances in the ‘Gidget’ film series and the Elvis Presley-starrer ‘Girl Happy’, has passed away at the age of 92. Reports from Deadline says that according to his family, the actor passed away from natural causes on June 22 at a hospital in Yonkers, New York. His death was publicly announced on July 4.Baker enjoyed a career that spanned more than three decades in film and television before stepping away from acting. He later reinvented himself as a visual artist, earning appreciation for his work as a painter, sculptor and jewelry artisan.
From Canada to Hollywood
Joby Baker was born on March 26, 1934, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Although born in Canada, he spent much of his early life in Oahu, Hawaii.He later continued his education in New York City. Then he moved to Los Angeles to pursue opportunities in the entertainment industry.Early in his career, he featured in shows such as ‘The Red Skelton Hour’, ‘Studio One’, and ‘The George Burns’ and ‘Gracie Allen Show’.
Breakthrough with ‘Gidget’
Baker’s biggest breakthrough came in 1959 when he played Stinky in ‘Gidget’. He then reprised the role in ‘Gidget Goes Hawaiian’ (1961) and ‘Gidget Goes to Rome’ (1963).He also showes his prowess for comedy in ‘Girl Happy’ (1965), where he played Wilbur alongside Elvis Presley.Beyond the big screen, Baker built an extensive television career. He starred in all 26 episodes of the sitcom ‘Good Morning World’ between 1967 and 1968. He also appeared in several acclaimed television series, including ‘Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Combat!’ , ‘The Dick Van Dyke Show’, and many others.
A new chapter as an artist
After making his final screen appearance in 1984, Joby Baker retired from acting and turned his attention to the visual arts. He developed a successful second career as a painter, sculptor, and jewelry artisan.His artwork included sculptures, figure drawings, and paintings and some of his works were reportedly inspired by his wife, singer-songwriter Dory Previn, whom he married in 1984. The couple remained together until Previn’s death in 2012.
Fans remember the beloved actor
Following the announcement of his death, social media was filled with heartfelt tributes. One user wrote, “Awww enjoyed him in those movies! He was always the goofy friend.” Another commented, “That is a very sad blow for the industry.”A third tribute read, “Sorry to see another Perry Mason alum guest leave us. Adorable Joby Baker has died at 92-recent photo from his daughter.”Joby Baker’s work continues to be remembered by generations of fans who admired both his performances on screen and his artistic contributions after retirement.