Zippy puppeteer Ronnie Le Drew dead age 78 as Rainbow fans share their sadness
Ronnie Le Drew, the performer behind Rainbow's Zippy, has died aged 78. The British Puppet Guild led tributes to his long career.Ronnie Le Drew, the puppeteer behind legendary Rainbow character Zippy, has died.
Ronnie’s death aged 78 was announced today (Monday July 27, 2026) by the British Puppet Guild.
The puppeteer, who died following a short illness, had previously been President of the Guild for a decade.
His death has saddened thousands of fans who grew up watching Zippy in children’s television show Rainbow, alongside Geoffrey, George and Bungle.
Zippy puppeteer Ronnie Le Drew dead age 78
The British Puppet Guild praised Ronnie’s long service and his decade as President in its statement announcing his death.
It 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.”
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Tributes for Zippy star pour in
Ronnie was born in Canada before he moved to the UK as a teenager. He trained at the Little Angel Theatre in London before embarking on his successful career.
He will be best known for voicing Zippy in the ITV show Rainbow. Peter Hawkins first voiced the character in 1972. before Ronnie took over in 1974.
Ronnie’s career credits also include Muppet movies, Labyrinth, Little Shop of Horrors and Beauty and the Beast. He also appeared in A Quiet Place: Day One.
Fans have been left saddened by the news, especially as it broke at the same time another childhood legend’s death was revealed. Bill Oddie has also died aged 85.
Writing on X, one said: “Bill Oddie and Zippy on the same day? I can’t cope.” Another added: “Bill Oddie and now Zippy….This day takes a heavy toll.”
And a third added: “Bill Oddie and Zippy on the same day? A bad time for Gen X’s childhood memories.”
