Veteran Hollywood actor Joby Baker, best known for his memorable performances in the movie “Gidget” and Elvis Presley’s ‘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 publicly announced on July 4.Baker had a career that spanned more than three decades in film and television before retiring from acting. He later re-established himself as a painter, and was praised for his work as a painter, sculptor and jeweler.
From Canada to Hollywood
Joby Baker was born on March 26, 1934, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Although he was born in Canada, he spent most of his childhood in Oahu, Hawaii.He then continued his studies in New York City. He then moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in entertainment.Early in his career, he hosted shows such as ‘The Red Skelton Hour’, ‘Studio One’, ‘The George Burns’ and ‘Gracie Allen Show’.
Winning with ‘Gidget’
Baker’s big break 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 showed his acting skills in ‘Girl Happy’ (1965), where he played Wilbur alongside Elvis Presley.Beyond the big screen, Baker has developed a significant career in television. He also starred in all 26 episodes of the sitcom ‘Good Morning World’ between 1967 and 1968. He also appeared in many popular TV shows, including ‘Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Combat!’ , ‘The Dick Van Dyke Show’, and many others.
New title as artist
After making his last appearance in 1984, Joby Baker retired and turned to the visual arts. He launched a successful second career as a painter, sculptor, and jeweler.His art included paintings, drawings, and prints and some of his works were said to be 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 player
After his death was announced, social media was flooded with heartfelt tributes. Another user wrote, “Awww she was so fun with him in those movies! He was a bad friend.” Another said, “This is very sad for the industry.”A third tribute said, “So sorry to see another Perry Mason alum guest leave us. Beloved Joby Baker passed away at 92—recently from his daughter.”Joby Baker’s career continues to be remembered by generations of fans who admire his on-screen performances and his artistic skills long after his retirement.