Zippy puppeteer Ronnie Le Drew has died aged 78 following a “short illness”.
Le Drew was best known for voicing the yellow zip-mouthed character on the ITV children’s TV show Rainbow for two decades.
His death was announced in a heartfelt Instagram post shared on Monday by the British Puppet Guild – of which Le Drew was president for 10 years.
The statement read: “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.”
Launched in the 70s, Rainbow was the UK’s version to America’s Sesame Street and featured Zippy along with Bungle, a giant teddy bear and George, a pink hippo, alongside the late presenter Geoffrey Hayes.
The series aired until 1992 with Le Drew controlling the puppet Zippy from 1973 before going on to voice the character as well.
The statement continued: “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.”
The Canadian-born British puppeteer was also known for working on 1986’s Labyrinth alongside David Bowie as well as 1986’s Little Shop of Horrors and various Muppet movies including in 1992’s The Muppet Christmas Carol.
