Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 23, 2025 · Entertainment

Celebrating Rene Kirby: The Inspiring Life Behind 'Shallow Hal' Star

Shallow Hal star Rene Kirby has died, aged 70. The actor died on July 11 after being hospitalised for two months with infections (pictured in a 2008 documentary)

BREAKING NEWS: Hollywood's Beloved Renegade Rene Kirby Has Left Us Too Soon!

In a shocking turn of events, thespian extraordinaire Rene Kirby has bid adieu to this mortal coil at the ripe age of 70. The talented actor, best known for his memorable roles in films like "Shallow Hal" and "Stuck on You", left us on July 11th after a valiant two-month battle against infections and various health issues.

According to his brother Jon Kirby, Rene's passing occurred at the University of Vermont Medical Center, as reported by the esteemed publication, Seven Days. This devastating news has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, leaving fans and fellow actors alike reeling in grief.

Rene had a memorable role in the 2001 movie Shallow Hal, playing Walt, who like Rene had no use of his legs due to spina bifida - pictured with Gwyneth Paltrow

Rene's remarkable story began with a rare birth defect – spina bifida – which left him without the use of his legs. However, this did not deter him from pursuing his passion for acting. In fact, Rene's determination and zest for life inspired countless individuals, including Hollywood director Peter Farrelly, who discovered him in 1999.

Farrelly was so taken by Rene's infectious energy that he wrote a part specifically for him in the 2001 comedy classic "Shallow Hal", starring Jack Black and Gwyneth Paltrow. The film's themes of inner beauty and looking beyond superficial appearances resonated deeply with Rene, who embodied those qualities like no other.

As his brother Jon revealed, Rene's life was marked by numerous health issues, including throat cancer, which left him unable to speak in recent years. Despite these challenges, Rene remained a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who knew him.

Rene was born with more than a foot of his lower spine missing whilst his spine was detached from his pelvis and his legs never developed

Rene's remarkable journey began with an extraordinary childhood. Born with more than a foot of his lower spine missing, he defied the odds by walking on his hands as a toddler and winning state titles in gymnastics as a teenager. His parents, Don and Janet Kirby, refused to let doctors dictate their son's future, instead encouraging him to reach for his bottle – a decision that would ultimately define Rene's approach to life.

After a 20-year stint at IBM, Rene turned his attention to acting, bringing a unique perspective to the craft. As he shared in a 2008 documentary, "I never considered myself disabled." This defiant attitude earned him widespread admiration and respect within the industry.

In a poignant tribute, director Peter Farrelly declared, "I've never met anyone like Rene... He has an amazing life. Talk about inner beauty – this guy really has it!" Those who knew Rene will attest to his radiant spirit, which left an indelible mark on all who encountered him.

Rene's acting career also included a role in the 2003 film Stuck on You as well as one episode of the TV show Carnivàle

Rene Kirby may be gone, but his legacy lives on through the countless hearts he touched and the unforgettable performances that continue to entertain us today. As we bid farewell to this remarkable individual, we take solace in the knowledge that Rene's inner beauty will forever remain a shining beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

Sources: TheScholarlyNote.com, Seven Days