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Rene Kirby died on July 11, 2025, at the age of 70, following a lengthy hospital stay because of issues with his kidneys, bladder, and esophagus. He battled spina bifida his entire life and survived throat cancer. In his last months, his health rapidly declined, and he passed away at Vermont Medical Center.
Rene Kirby became well-known for playing Jason Alexander's brother, Walt, in the 2001 film Shallow Hal. The Farrelly brothers wrote the part especially for him. Later, he appeared in HBO's Carnivàle and Stuck on You (2003), receiving acclaim for his authenticity and unique presence.
Rene Kirby dies aged 70 after a prolonged battle with illness: the Shallow Hal actor's career, life, and more.
Rene Kirby died on July 11, 2025, at the age of 70, following a courageous battle against several health issues. Rene, who was born with spina bifida, beat the odds by achieving success in sports and having a kind, charismatic personality.
During his final months, he battled throat cancer and infections that worsened his problems with his esophagus, kidneys, and bladder. Despite these obstacles, Rene persisted and kept his sense of humour intact.
Recalling Rene's wisdom, his brother, Jon, said,
“You don’t have to stand up to stand out.”
He further added,
"He just showed me that there's no limitations on what anyone can do."
He had an incredible life filled with humour, courage, and strength. He was born in Burlington, Vermont, on February 27, 1955, and as a child, he had to walk on his hands due to spina bifida.
Rene never let his physical limitations define him. He was an accomplished skier, a state gymnastics champion, and an IBM employee for over two decades. His life changed when he met Burlington-based filmmaker Peter Farrelly, who was so moved by his spirit that he wrote the part of Walt for him in Shallow Hal (2001). Rene later appeared in Stuck on You and HBO's Carnivàle.
His battle with throat cancer caused him to lose his larynx. Nevertheless, Rene maintained his optimism and continued to motivate others around him despite the hardship.
Surrounded by the people who had loved him throughout his life, Rene Kirby passed away on July 11, 2025, at the University of Vermont Medical Center. He drew his last breath in the city where he lived and which was witness to both his silent battles and his colourful victories.
