Rio del Valle Hackford dies at 52 (Photo: Getty)
Rio del Valle Hackford has died at the age of 52 after an illness, his brother confirmed.
Huckford’s death was confirmed to Variety by his brother Alex, who revealed he died Thursday in Huntington Beach, California.
The actor, who plays the IG-11 droid, voiced by Taika Whitey in The Mandalorian, is the son of director Taylor Hackford and the stepson of actress Helen Mirren.
His friend, screenwriter DV DeVincentis, paid tribute to the actor by sharing a black-and-white photo of him with an emotional caption.
He wrote: “Rio was more inclined to experience than anyone I ever knew. He will stop what is happening to point it out, it will force you to pay attention.
DeVincentis added: “Not just obsessed with movies and how they reflect and coerce, he was more than that: a super fan of countless scenes, specific gestures of unsung actors, strange career twists, jealous returns, swan songs in the movies – all real an experience for you when viewed consciously. ‘
Rio Hackford was the adopted son of Helen Mirren (Photo: John Sciulli / Getty Images)
Hackford recently starred as a manager at Pam & Tommy, having previously starred in Pretty Woman, Jonah Hex and Strange Days.
He has also directed music videos and owns the One-Eyed Jacks, Matador and Pal’s Lounge clubs in New Orleans, as well as restaurants in San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Mirren shared a close-up photo of Huckford’s face on her Instagram account, simply captioning “El Rio.”
Fans shared their condolences for her post, writing: “Handsome man. Happy to have you “and” I’m so sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family. ‘
More: Death of celebrities
Others added: “You spoke of him with such love, I am very sorry for your and Taylor’s and the whole family’s loss,” and “I am very sorry for your terrible loss.” You all have to be heartbroken. I send love to you, Taylor and the whole family. He will continue to live in his amazing boys.
Hackford is survived by his wife Libby Grace and his two children, as well as his brother Alex, his father Taylor Hackford and his stepmother Helen Mirren.
Do you have a story?
If you have a celebrity story, video or photos, contact the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, call 020 3615 2145 or visit our Submissions page – We love hearing from you.
MORE: Sir Ian McKellen addresses the debate on Jewish roles amid criticism of Helen Mirren: “We act”
MORE: Lady Helen Mirren reveals fears of becoming Jordi’s hostess for The Duke
Add Comment