Ronnie Le Drew Obituary: Zippy Puppeteer Dies at 78 2026

Ronnie Le Drew, the renowned puppeteer who brought Zippy to life on ITV's Rainbow, has died at the age of 78. His career spanned decades, and his work with the irascible glove puppet made him a household name among British children's television fans. Beyond Zippy, Le Drew was a master marionettist and a beloved mentor to a generation of puppeteers.

Early Life and Puppet Passion

Born in Toronto, Canada, Ronnie Le Drew moved to London with his family when he was just three years old. Growing up in a council flat, he discovered his love for puppetry early, often crafting his own characters and performing for friends. This passion led him to become one of the UK's foremost puppeteers, specializing in both glove puppets and intricate marionettes.

His technical skill and creativity quickly set him apart, and he began working in theatre and television, honing his craft before landing the role that would define his public career.

The Rainbow Years: Creating Zippy

Rainbow launched in 1972 as ITV's answer to Sesame Street, and by 1973, Ronnie was asked to take over operating Zippy. Working closely with voice actor Roy Skelton, who also voiced the Daleks and Cybermen in Doctor Who, Ronnie transformed Zippy into the show's unlikely star. Zippy was a moody, garrulous creature—his exact species never defined—who could only be silenced by zipping his mouth shut.

The partnership between Ronnie and Skelton was extraordinary. Skelton delivered Zippy's lines from a tiny booth, often puffing on a cigar, while Ronnie operated the puppet from under a counter, using a small TV monitor to sync his movements. Their improvisational chemistry made Zippy feel spontaneous and alive, captivating audiences for two full decades.

Behind the Scenes of a Cultural Icon

While the human hosts of Rainbow—Geoffrey Hayes, Rod Burton, Jane Tucker, and Freddy Marks—became public figures, Ronnie appreciated his anonymity. He once remarked that Zippy might be famous, but he never would be. This anonymity allowed him to focus on his craft, and he used his time on Rainbow to develop new puppetry techniques that influenced the industry.

Legacy and Mentorship

Ronnie Le Drew was not just a performer; he was a teacher. He taught puppetry at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and mentored countless aspiring puppeteers. His generosity on stage and his willingness to share his knowledge made him a beloved figure in the British puppetry community. Many contemporary puppeteers credit him as their inspiration and guide.

His work extended beyond Rainbow, including contributions to films, stage productions, and other television shows. He was a master of marionettes, and his technical innovations are still studied today.

Comparison: Glove Puppets vs. Marionettes

Key Takeaways from Ronnie Le Drew's Career

• Ronnie Le Drew was the puppeteer behind Zippy on Rainbow for 20 years.
• He worked in close collaboration with voice actor Roy Skelton to create Zippy's unique personality.
• He was a master marionettist and a pioneer in puppetry techniques.
• He taught at RADA and mentored many successful puppeteers.
• His legacy continues to influence children's television and puppetry arts.

Remembering a Puppetry Legend

Ronnie Le Drew's death marks the end of an era for British children's television. His work brought joy to millions of children, and his dedication to his craft inspired professionals worldwide. He will be deeply missed, but his creations—especially Zippy—will live on.

As the puppetry community mourns, they also celebrate a life dedicated to making the impossible seem real. Ronnie Le Drew proved that with skill and heart, a simple glove puppet could become a beloved friend.

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