Loyd Price, the Aardman animator known for his work on Wallace and Gromit, Chicken Run and Shaun the Sheep, has died at the age of 64. His final project was the 2023 Netflix release Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget.
Sir Peter Lord leads tributes
Aardman co-founder Sir Peter Lord paid tribute, saying: “Loyd joined us as an Animator over thirty years ago, and in the late 1990’s he took on an extra role, to train an entire generation of animators who would go on to be the core of our feature animation team.
“Loyd was tutor in chief, and what an incredible success that was! He was patient and encouraging, kind and demanding, with a superb analytical eye.
A career in animation
“He wasn’t ready to give up his first love, which was animation; from TV commercials to A Close Shave and on to Chicken Run, where he took on the combined roles of both Animator and Animation Supervisor.
“As he built the team, it was Loyd’s passion and pride to get to know in detail the animators under his charge. He could identify everyone’s particular skills and enthusiasms. And when times were tough, he would be their spokesperson and champion.
Fans and colleagues remember
Sir Peter added: “He was a great friend, a great talent, and incredibly loyal to Aardman. He brought a powerful sense of justice and fairness – which he was never afraid to share – but he’d always come up with solutions and suggestions. His retirement party was bursting at the seams with animators, all of whom he had taught, mentored, inspired and encouraged...
“All our sympathy goes out to his wife Alison, and to his whole family. We know that he was fiercely proud of them all, as a husband, a dad and a grandad, and that he will be sorely missed. Though we’re terribly sad, we feel lucky and proud to have known him.”
Fans also paid tribute on social media, with one writing: “Rest in peace legend. Love the Wallace and Gromit stuff growing up.” Another said: “Sad to hear. Another of the original blood of the series has left us.”
One of Loyd’s co-workers said: "Oh my goodness, this is heartbreaking news. I was Loyd’s assistant animator on Curse of the Were Rabbit, and he was a friend and mentor for many years, across many projects. He was such a calming presence, and so full of knowledge which he shared so generously. Very sad indeed to hear this. Sending love and thoughts to Alison and his family, and all who knew him."
