Ronnie Le Drew, the puppeteer best known for operating and voicing Zippy on the classic children's television programme Rainbow, has died at the age of 78. His death was announced by the British Puppet Guild on Monday.
Early life and career
Born in Toronto, Canada, Le Drew moved to Britain as a teenager, where he trained at the Little Angel Theatre in London. He worked with the company for 30 years, first as a performer and later as a director.
He began working on Rainbow in 1973, initially operating Zippy and later providing the character's voice. His talents extended to other classic children's shows, including Playdays, The Tommy Cooper Show and multiple versions of The Sooty Show, where he often operated Sweep and other characters.
Film and other work
Le Drew also contributed to major films such as Labyrinth, Little Shop of Horrors and The Muppet Christmas Carol. He operated the original Bill and Ben in an Ideal Home Exhibition advert and Brains from Thunderbirds in a Drench water advert.
Tributes
The British Puppet Guild's statement said: "We are saddened to announce the death of our President and friend Ronnie Le Drew, following a short illness. Ronnie has been our president for 10 years, possibly the most active and supportive president we have ever had or will have."
"Attending nearly every event, whether it be online or in person, often performing when asked and always willing to chat, tell stories and entertain in whatever way he could. Ronnie was, of course, known for Zippy, but his legacy in the puppetry world stretches far more than that, and there will be countless puppeteers mourning the loss of our dear friend. He meant so much to so many, and the legacy of his life will live on."
Le Drew was due to appear at Abbey Con, a comic convention in Abingdon, this autumn. A statement from Trooper Events UK, the team behind the convention, said: "We are deeply saddened to announce the loss of a dear friend and supporter of our events, Ronnie Le Drew. Ronnie was one of the friendliest and kindest people we had the pleasure of knowing. He always brought warmth and kindness with him, and he will be missed dearly. We send our love and deepest condolences to all of Ronnie’s family and friends who have lost such a beautiful person. Ronnie was due to return to Abbey-Con this year, but sadly his health suddenly took a turn for the worse. We will miss him dearly and remember him always. Rest in peace, Ronnie. You will never be forgotten."
The original voice of Zippy and George from Rainbow, Roy Skelton, died in 2011. He also voiced the Daleks in Doctor Who from 1967 to 1988.
