Ronnie Le Drew, Voice of Zippy from Rainbow, Dies Aged 78
Puppeteer's extensive career spanned iconic children's television, film, and decades of teaching.
Sarah Connor
Ronnie Le Drew, the distinctive voice behind Zippy from the beloved children's television series Rainbow, has died at the age of 78.
For three decades, Le Drew dedicated himself to teaching at London’s Little Angel theatre, shaping generations of puppeteers.
The British Puppet Guild announced, "We are saddened to announce the death of our President and friend Ronnie Le Drew, following a short illness."
The Guild further confirmed his commitment, stating, "Ronnie has been our president for 10 years, possibly the most active and supportive president we have ever had or will have."
Ronnie has been our president for 10 years, possibly the most active and supportive president we have ever had or will have.
Rainbow, which aired for 27 series and 1,071 episodes, concluded in 1992.
Conceived as a British equivalent to the American educational show Sesame Street, the programme achieved critical acclaim.
It won the Society of Film and Television Arts Award for Best Children's Programme in 1975.
Rod, Jane and Freddy made regular appearances on the show, contributing to its enduring popularity.
Le Drew's career began with early commercial work, operating the original Bill and Ben puppets in an Ideal Home Exhibition advert.
He also manipulated Brains from Thunderbirds in a Drench water advert.
His continued involvement in the craft was evident in his appearance in the 2019 Netflix series The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance.
In 2019, he released his autobiography, 'Zippy and Me: My Life Inside Britain’s Most Infamous Puppet,' offering insights into his iconic role.
Born in Toronto, Canada, Le Drew later moved to Britain as a teenager, establishing his career in the UK.
The British Puppet Guild acknowledged the breadth of his impact, stating, "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."
The Guild reflected on his character, noting he was "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 Le Drew's early career laid foundational groundwork, operating iconic commercial puppets like Bill and Ben for an Ideal Home Exhibition advert.
This early exposure to diverse projects, including Brains from Thunderbirds in a Drench water advert, solidified his versatile skill set long before Zippy.
The landscape of children's television shifted dramatically with Rainbow's debut in October 1972, aiming to mirror the educational success of America's Sesame Street.
Le Drew's integral role in this critically acclaimed programme, which won the Society of Film and Television Arts Award in 1975, cemented his place in cultural history.
Stakeholders across the industry, from the British Puppet Guild to generations of puppeteers, feel the profound loss.
The Guild, for whom Le Drew served as president for 10 years, emphasized his active and supportive leadership, impacting countless individuals.
His commitment extended beyond performance, dedicating three decades to teaching at London’s Little Angel theatre, directly shaping the future of the craft.
This mentorship ensured a continuous flow of talent, influencing the next wave of puppeteers.
The landscape of puppetry continues to evolve, yet Le Drew's influence remains visible, even in modern productions.
His appearance in the 2019 Netflix series The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance demonstrated his enduring relevance and adaptability.
His autobiography, 'Zippy and Me: My Life Inside Britain’s Most Infamous Puppet,' released in 2019, offers invaluable historical context and personal insights into his iconic role.
This publication preserves his unique perspective for future generations.
The economic impact of his work spanned decades, from early commercial ventures to major film productions like Labyrinth and The Muppet Christmas Carol.
These projects generated significant revenue and cultural capital within the entertainment industry.
Public pressure for quality children's programming, exemplified by Rainbow's critical acclaim, underscored the demand for skilled puppeteers like Le Drew.
His ability to connect with audiences through characters like Zippy created a lasting cultural touchstone.
The British Puppet Guild concluded, "He meant so much to so many, and the legacy of his life will live on."
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