The tragic news of former child star Rory Callum Sykes’s death has sent ripples of sorrow through the entertainment community and beyond. At just 32 years old, Rory lost his life in the devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles, specifically at his family’s home in Malibu.
His mother, Shelley Sykes, shared the heartbreaking news on social media, expressing her profound grief and the challenges they faced during the disaster.
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 Sykes was not just a child actor; he was a symbol of resilience. Born blind and diagnosed with cerebral palsy, he faced numerous hurdles throughout his life. Despite these challenges, he starred in the British children’s television show Kiddy Kapers during the 1990s, hosted by his mother.
Rory’s journey was one of determination; he underwent multiple surgeries and therapies to regain his sight and learn to walk. His mother described him as someone who was eager to explore the world despite enduring significant pain.
Photo: Rory Sykes/X
On January 8, 2025, Rory was staying in a cottage on his family’s expansive estate when the wildfires struck. According to reports, embers from the fire landed on the cottage’s roof, which ultimately trapped him inside. Shelley recounted her desperate attempts to save her son but was hindered by an injury that left her unable to lift him. She recalled Rory telling her to leave him behind, a heart-wrenching moment no parent should have to endure.
Tragically, he succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning as a result of the fire. The wildfires that claimed Rory’s life are part of a series of blazes that have wreaked havoc across Los Angeles County since January 7. As of now, at least 11 fatalities have been reported due to these fires, with thousands of structures damaged or destroyed. The fires have led to widespread evacuations and a public health emergency due to deteriorating air quality
