The entertainment world is mourning the loss of former child star Rory Callum Sykes, who tragically passed away at the age of 32 during the devastating Malibu wildfires.
Sykes, best known for his role on the 1990s British TV show Kiddy Kapers, died on January 8, 2024, when the wildfires swept through Los Angeles County. His mother, Shelly Sykes, shared the heartbreaking news on social media, revealing the family’s unimaginable loss.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Shelly wrote, “It is with great sadness that I have to announce the death of my beautiful son @Rorysykes to the Malibu fires yesterday. I’m totally heartbroken.”
Shelly recounted Rory’s inspiring life story, highlighting his resilience and achievements despite facing significant health challenges. Born blind and with cerebral palsy, Rory overcame immense obstacles, undergoing surgeries and therapies that allowed him to regain his sight and mobility.
“British-born Australian living in America, a wonderful son, a gift born on mine & his grandma’s birthday, 29 July 92. Rory Callum Sykes was the founder of @happycharity, a true humanitarian,” Shelly wrote. She also described Rory as a passionate fan of Apple, Tim Cook, and the online game RuneScape.
At just eight years old, Rory became a sought-after motivational speaker for Tony Robbins, sharing his story of courage and resilience. His journey was documented in the book Callum’s Cure, published by Simon & Schuster in Australia.
Rory’s vibrant life included travels to Africa and Antarctica, an extension of his adventurous spirit despite the physical pain he endured.
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He lived on a 17-acre estate in Malibu, complete with a cottage filled with the latest Apple technology, which was destroyed in the fires.
Shelly expressed her anguish over the lack of water during the fire, stating that even the firefighters were left powerless due to water supply issues.
“I couldn’t put out the cinders on his roof with a hose because the water was switched off by @LVMWD Las Virgenes Municipal Water,” she wrote, calling out the devastating impact of these limitations.
Rory is survived by his mother, Shelly, his beloved pet peacocks, Edgee and Mickie, and countless fans worldwide who were inspired by his journey.
The Malibu wildfires, which began on January 7, have claimed at least 11 lives, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
Rory’s death has cast a spotlight on the challenges faced by those caught in such natural disasters and the bravery of individuals like him who leave an indelible mark on the world.
As the entertainment industry and his supporters grieve his loss, Rory Callum Sykes is remembered not just as a former child star but as a beacon of hope, resilience, and love.
