‘Shallow Hal’ Actor Passes Away at 70

Rene Kirby, the unforgettable actor who stole scenes in Shallow Hal and defied expectations as a gymnast with spina bifida, has died at the age of 70. The Vermont native spent two months in the hospital battling complications related to his esophagus, kidneys, and bladder before passing away on July 11 at the University of Vermont Medical Center.

Kirby’s brother, Jon, confirmed the sad news to local outlet Seven Days, remembering Rene as someone who never let his disability define him. “He just showed me that there’s no limitations on what anyone can do,” Jon said. “You don’t have to stand up to stand out”—a quote he says perfectly captured Rene’s spirit.

Rene Kirby was born in Burlington, Vermont, the second of seven siblings. Until the fall of 2024, he was often spotted around town pedaling a custom three-wheeled bicycle. Despite being born with spina bifida, Rene embraced life fully: he was a gymnast who won state titles in high school, a swimmer, a skier, a carpenter, and a longtime IBM employee.

His big Hollywood break came in 2001 when he appeared as Walt in the Farrelly brothers’ comedy Shallow Hal, sharing scenes with Jack Black and Jason Alexander. He followed that up with a role in Stuck on You in 2003 and made his final on-screen appearance in a 2005 episode of Carnivàle.

But Rene’s talents weren’t limited to the screen. He was known for his resilience, especially after beating throat cancer in recent years. The treatment cost him his voice—his larynx was removed—but his presence and personality still shone brightly.

“He was just Rene—unfiltered, sharp, and kind,” said his sister Cheryl St. Amour.

Rene is survived by his mother, Janet, and six siblings. He was predeceased by his father, Don.

Fans remember him not just for his memorable roles, but for his fierce determination, warm spirit, and the legacy he leaves as someone who lived far beyond the limits the world tried to place on him.