Former Child Star Rory Sykes Dies in Malibu Wildfires at 32

Fire broke out on January 7, 2025 in the wealthy town of Pacific Palisades, on the edge of Malibu, sending an inferno of flames to race down the mountain toward Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Los Angeles County. Palisades Fire, CA, Malibu, California, USA
Fire broke out on January 7, 2025 in the wealthy town of Pacific Palisades, on the edge of Malibu, sending an inferno of flames to race toward Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Los Angeles County. Palisades Fire, CA, Malibu, California, USA - 07 Jan 2025. Photo by Amy Katz/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock (15084078p)

Rory Sykes, a former child actor renowned for his role in the 1990s British television show Kiddy Kapers, tragically passed away at the age of 32 due to the recent wildfires in Malibu, California. Sykes, who was born blind and lived with cerebral palsy, overcame significant health challenges throughout his life. His death has been attributed to carbon monoxide poisoning after flames engulfed his cottage on a family property near Malibu.

Born in the United Kingdom, Sykes moved to Australia during his childhood, where he continued his acting career and became a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Despite his physical challenges, he underwent multiple surgeries and therapies, regaining his sight and learning to walk. His resilience and determination inspired many, and he was actively involved in charitable work and motivational speaking, aiming to support and encourage others facing similar obstacles.

The devastating wildfires that have swept through Southern California have led to significant loss of life and property. As of January 12, sixteen deaths have been attributed to the wildfires, with more than 9,300 structures reported destroyed, as reported by ABC News. The Palisades Fire, which began on January 7, has burned over 23,000 acres and remains only partially contained. Firefighters, including support from the U.S. Department of Defense and the Royal Canadian Air Force, are working tirelessly to combat the blazes amid challenging weather conditions, including strong winds and dry terrain.

Sykes’s mother, Shelley Sykes, shared the heartbreaking news of her son’s passing on social media, writing on X “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 heartbroken,” as reported by NBC News. Despite her attempts to save him, she was unable to prevent the tragedy. In her post, Shelley expressed profound grief, describing Rory as a “wonderful son” who had overcome numerous challenges and made significant contributions through his charitable endeavors.

Shelley Sykes also shared that she had tried to put out the wildfire cinders on her roof using a hose but was unable to because the water wasn’t working, stating “Even the 50 brave firefighters had no water all day!”. She recalled how Rory said, “Mom, leave me,” but added, “No mom can leave their kid. And I’ve got a broken arm, I couldn’t lift him, I couldn’t move him,” as reported by CNN.

A spokesperson for Las Virgenes Municipal Water disputed her claims, stating, “Our water system remained operational and we did provide water to the firefighters throughout the emergency and without interruption,” as reported by NBC News.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the wildfires, with efforts focused on containment and preventing further loss of life. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has indicated that the full extent of the fatalities will become clearer as search and rescue operations proceed. In the meantime, communities affected by the fires are coming together to support those who have lost loved ones and homes, demonstrating resilience in the face of tragedy.

As the region begins the long process of recovery, the legacy of individuals like Rory Sykes, who faced life’s challenges with courage and grace, will continue to inspire and remind us of the strength of the human spirit.