Veteran Hollywood actor Joby Baker, best known for his memorable performances in the ‘Gidget’ and ‘Girl Happy’ film series starring Elvis Presley, has died aged 92. Deadline reports that according to his family, the actor died of 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 retiring from acting. He later reinvented himself as a visual artist, gaining recognition for his work as a painter, sculptor and jewelry craftsman.
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 years in Oahu, Hawaii.He later continued his studies in New York City. He then moved to Los Angeles to pursue opportunities in the entertainment industry.Earlier in his career, he participated in shows like ‘The Red Skelton Hour’, ‘Studio One’ and ‘The George Burns’ and ‘Gracie Allen Show’.
Progress with ‘Gidget’
Baker’s breakthrough came in 1959 when he played Stinky in ‘Gidget’. She then reprized the role in ‘Gidget Goes Hawaiian’ (1961) and ‘Gidget Goes to Rome’ (1963).He also shows his knack 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 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 craftsman.His artwork included sculptures, figure drawings and paintings, and some of his works were 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 filled with heartfelt tributes. One user wrote: “Awww enjoyed him in those movies! He was always the goofy dude.” Another commented: “This is a very sad blow to the industry.”A third tribute read: “So sorry to see another Perry Mason alum guest leave us. The lovely Joby Baker has passed away in his daughter’s recent ’92 photo.”Joby Baker’s work continues to be remembered by generations of fans who admired both his on-screen performances and his artistic contributions after retirement.