Actor Joby Baker, whose career spanned from the 1950s and included a co-starring role opposite Elvis Presley in the 1965 film Girl Happy, died on Wednesday, June 22, at the age of 92. His family confirmed the news to Deadline, stating he died of natural causes in Mount Kisco, New York. His death came just 10 days after his Good Morning World co-star Ronnie Schell died on June 12.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Baker began his career as a teenager in the early 1950s, with small roles on The Red Skelton Hour, Studio One, and The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show. He gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, appearing on shows such as The Dick Van Dyke Show and the Alfred Hitchcock Hour. His role as David Lewis in the CBS sitcom Good Morning World cemented his star status, playing a morning drive radio disc jockey duo with Schell. The show also featured Goldie Hawn.
Film Career and Disney Roles
On the big screen, Baker appeared in comedic films such as 1960's The Wackiest Ship in the Army opposite Jack Lemmon and Ricky Nelson. He also appeared in three Gidget movies, including the 1959 original starring Sandra Dee. In 1965, he played Wilbur, the comic relief bass player in Elvis Presley's band in Girl Happy. During this period, he was a go-to young actor for Walt Disney Studios, starring opposite Roddy McDowall in 1967's The Adventures of Bullwhip Griffin and appearing in Disney's Superdad in 1973 alongside Bob Crane and Kurt Russell.
Later Career and Artistic Pursuits
In 1980, Baker played Colonel Marvin on the sitcom Six O'Clock Follies. His last credited role was in 1984 as a police detective in an episode of The Paper Chase. Outside of acting, Baker enjoyed a successful career as a painter and sculptor since the 1970s, holding exhibitions in prominent galleries in Los Angeles, New York, and New England. His artwork entered private collections across the United States.
Survivors
Baker is survived by his daughters, Fredricka Baker and Michelle Wayland; Scott Zimmerman, whom he helped raise as a son; six grandchildren; and a great-granddaughter.
