Rene Kirby, the actor known for his role in Shallow Hal, has died at the age of 70, with news of his death confirmed recently. He became a familiar face in early 2000s cinema and remained a notable figure in Vermont, where he lived most of his life.
Here’s what we know so far about Rene Kirby’s death.
Rene Kirby passes away at 70, claims report
Rene Kirby, known for his role as Walt in Shallow Hal, died on July 11, 2025, in Burlington, Vermont, at the age of 70.
His brother Jon Kirby confirmed the news to Vermont outlet Seven Days. Kirby died at the University of Vermont Medical Center after spending two months in the hospital with kidney, bladder, and esophagus issues, as well as multiple infections. He had previously survived throat cancer but lost his voice after doctors removed his larynx.
Kirby grew up in Burlington, Vermont, with spina bifida, a condition that led to scoliosis, partial leg paralysis, and difficulty walking. He earned state titles in gymnastics, swimming, and skiing. He spent 20 years working for IBM and remained a familiar sight in Burlington, often riding his three-wheeled bicycle until fall 2024.
Director Peter Farrelly met Kirby in Burlington during the 1999 filming of Me, Myself and Irene. “Rene’s a guy we met in real life, on our travels, in Burlington. He’s not the kind of guy you see in a movie. You see him in Burlington, but you don’t see him in the movies,” Farrelly told the Burlington Free Press in 2023. Farrelly cast Kirby in Shallow Hal (2001), where he acted alongside Jack Black and Gwyneth Paltrow. Kirby later played Phil Rupp in Stuck on You (2003) and appeared in an episode of HBO’s Carnivàle in 2005.
Jon Kirby told Seven Days, “He just showed me that there’s no limitations on what anyone can do.” He added, “You don’t have to stand up to stand out.”
Kirby is survived by his mother and six siblings. He was predeceased by his father.
