Kenny Baker
One of my earliest memories of San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) is of meeting Kenny Baker - the man inside the dome of R2-D2. It was 2005 and, although SDCC was already changing into a media frenzied con, it was still a place where classic talent held serve with the new kids. While traditional Star Trek and Star Wars actors still make their way to the con, they are often obscured by the ruckus surrounding people, like the NCIS crew at the CBS booth or the constant flow of 20-somethings at the WB booth.
Baker was there with his wife and they were located at the Official Pix booth. We paid $30 for the picture and the autograph. While there was a steady line, it was nothing unmanageable and we slowly made our way to the front. This signing has had particular relevance because it was the first time my wife, Carmelle played an active role in the process. She was the one that actually got the signature, while I took the pictures. Seeing as how her height was closer to his (she claims to be 4' 11 3/4"), it just seemed to make sense.
Mr. Baker was very kind and full of smiles, making it an all-around wonderful experience. He was a true professional, in that he knew exactly how to handle his fans. Whereas some are gruff, and others can take entirely too long, Kenny Baker knew how to strike a balance and keep the line moving while still making the fans feel appreciated.
I've always been really appreciative of this experience, as it has remained the only time I've crossed paths with the actor. As he ages, and consequently attends less shows, it seems quite possible that SDCC 2005 remain my only encounter with the man.
Baker was there with his wife and they were located at the Official Pix booth. We paid $30 for the picture and the autograph. While there was a steady line, it was nothing unmanageable and we slowly made our way to the front. This signing has had particular relevance because it was the first time my wife, Carmelle played an active role in the process. She was the one that actually got the signature, while I took the pictures. Seeing as how her height was closer to his (she claims to be 4' 11 3/4"), it just seemed to make sense.
Mr. Baker was very kind and full of smiles, making it an all-around wonderful experience. He was a true professional, in that he knew exactly how to handle his fans. Whereas some are gruff, and others can take entirely too long, Kenny Baker knew how to strike a balance and keep the line moving while still making the fans feel appreciated.
I've always been really appreciative of this experience, as it has remained the only time I've crossed paths with the actor. As he ages, and consequently attends less shows, it seems quite possible that SDCC 2005 remain my only encounter with the man.
