Former child star Rory Callum Sykes, known for his role in Kiddy Kapers, tragically died at 32 in the Los Angeles fires. He succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning at his Malibu cottage. Born with cerebral palsy, Rory faced many challenges but inspired others with his resilience.
His mother, Shelley, desperately tried to save him as the fire consumed the cottage but was hindered by a lack of water. Rory urged her to leave, but she couldn’t abandon him. By the time firefighters arrived, it was too late.
Rory had recently moved to the U.S. and was a motivational speaker from the age of eight. He and Shelley co-founded Happy Charity, reflecting his desire to make a positive impact on the world.
Shelley described Rory as a “gift” who shared her birthday. His death, one of at least 11 in the wildfires, is a devastating loss, but his inspiring life continues to touch hearts.