Ronnie Le Drew, the celebrated puppeteer best known for operating Zippy on ITV’s Rainbow, has died at age 78. His decades-long career brought joy to millions and inspired a generation of puppeteers.
Early Life and Puppetry Beginnings
Born in Toronto, Ronnie Le Drew moved to London as a child and developed a passion for puppetry early on. He honed his craft as a marionettist and eventually joined the cast of Rainbow, taking over the role of Zippy in 1973.
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Working with Zippy: The Glove-Puppet Icon
Zippy, a moody and garrulous creature with a distinctive zippered mouth, became the show’s breakout star. Le Drew worked closely with voice actor Roy Skelton to bring Zippy to life, improvising live from beneath the set. The duo’s chemistry turned Zippy into a beloved character for two decades.
Legacy in British Puppetry
Beyond Rainbow, Le Drew was a master marionettist and a generous mentor. He taught workshops, inspired students, and performed in countless stage productions. His dedication helped elevate puppetry as an art form.
Comparison: Zippy vs. Other Iconic Puppets
| Puppet | Show | Operator | Years Active |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zippy | Rainbow | Ronnie Le Drew | 1973–1992 |
| Kermit the Frog | The Muppets | Jim Henson | 1955–1990 |
| Lamb Chop | Lamb Chop’s Play-Along | Shari Lewis | 1957–1998 |
Key Takeaways from Ronnie Le Drew’s Career
- Operated Zippy for nearly 20 years on Rainbow
- Recognized as one of Britain’s foremost marionettists
- Mentored aspiring puppeteers across the UK
- Remained humble despite Zippy’s fame
- Left a lasting legacy in children’s television
FAQ
Who was Ronnie Le Drew?
Ronnie Le Drew was a British puppeteer best known for operating Zippy on the ITV children’s show Rainbow. He was also a master marionettist and teacher.
What was Zippy from Rainbow?
Zippy was a glove puppet with a zippered mouth, known for his moody, talkative personality. He appeared on Rainbow from 1972 to 1992.
How did Ronnie Le Drew operate Zippy?
Le Drew worked from under a counter, using a small TV monitor, while voice actor Roy Skelton delivered lines from a booth. They developed a seamless sync that allowed improvisation.
Ronnie Le Drew’s contributions to television and puppetry will be remembered fondly. His work on Rainbow brought laughter to children and adults alike, and his teaching ensured the craft lives on.
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