Rory Sykes died in the January 2025 Southern California wildfires. The late 32-year-old actor, with credits including the self-hosted Kiddy Kapers, was 32 years old, according to his IMDb profile. His mother, actress, writer and producer Shelley Sykes, revealed her son’s tragic death as the wildfires ravaged Los Angeles County.
Below, News47.us is remembering Rory, his work and how his mom paid tribute to him.
Per his IMDb account, Rory’s credits included self-hosting Kiddy Kapers in the late 1990s, and he starred in the 2009 music video “Shelley Sykes: Rappin’ Mama.” He also appeared in a 2003 interview on Mornings with Keri-Anne.
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 heart broken. British born Australian living in America, a wonderful son, a gift born on mine & his grandmas birthday 29 July 92, Rory Callum… pic.twitter.com/X77xyk83gx
— Shelley Sykes (@shelleysykes) January 9, 2025
Rory lived with multiple health issues but didn’t let them stop him from pursuing his dreams. He was blind and had cerebral palsy — a group of conditions that affect an individual’s movement, posture and even their ability to swallow, according to Mayo Clinic.
Rory’s IMDb profile indicates that he was born in West Yorkshire, United Kingdom. His birth name was Callum Leeland Sykes.
In addition to being an actor, Rory was also a dedicated humanitarian. He co-founded the organization Happy Charity.