Veteran Hollywood actor Joby Baker, who was known for his memorable performances in the film series ‘Gidget’ and the Elvis Presley-starrer ‘Girl Happy’, has died at the age of 92.Reports from Deadline say that according to his family, the actor died of natural causes on June 22 at a hospital in Yonkers, New York. His death was made public on July 4.Baker enjoyed a career that spanned more than three decades in film and television before retiring from acting. He later reinvented himself as a visual artist, gaining 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 most of his early life in Oahu, Hawaii.He later continued his education in New York City. He then moved to Los Angeles to pursue opportunities in the entertainment industry.Early in his career, he appeared in shows like ‘The Red Skelton Hour’, ‘Studio One’, and ‘The George Burns’ and ‘Gracie Allen Show’.
Development of ‘Gidget’
Baker’s biggest breakthrough came in 1959 when he played Stinky in ‘Gidget’. She reprized the role in ‘Gidget Goes Hawaiian’ (1961) and ‘Gidget Goes to Rome’ (1963).He also showed his comedy skills in ‘Girl Happy’ (1965), where he played Wilbur alongside Elvis Presley.Beyond the big screen, Baker has 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 popular television series, including ‘Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Combat!’ , ‘The Dick Van Dyke Show’, and many more.
A new chapter as an artist
After making his last 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 includes 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
After the announcement of his death, social media was flooded with heartfelt tributes. One user wrote, “Awww he loves those movies! He’s always the crazy friend.” Another commented, “This is a sad blow for the industry.”A third tribute read, “So sorry to see another Perry Mason alum guest leave us. The adorable Joby Baker passed away at 92-recent photo from his daughter.”Joby Baker’s work continues to be remembered by generations of fans who admired his screen performances and his artistic contributions after retirement.