Ronnie Le Drew, the renowned puppeteer who operated and voiced the iconic character Zippy on the British children's television series Rainbow, has died at the age of 78 following a short illness.
His passing was announced on Monday, July 27, 2026, by the British Puppet Guild, where he served as president for a decade.
Born in Toronto, Canada, Le Drew moved to Britain as a teenager.
He honed his craft at London's Little Angel Theatre, first as an apprentice and later spending more than 30 years there as a performer and director.
Le Drew joined Rainbow in 1973 to operate Zippy and began voicing the character in 1991.
His career also included work on films such as Labyrinth, Little Shop of Horrors, and The Muppet Christmas Carol, as well as television programs like Playdays and Ashes to Ashes.
Tributes from the Puppet Community
The British Puppet Guild released a statement honoring their long-serving leader.
"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," the guild said.
The guild highlighted Le Drew's deep engagement with the community, noting how he frequently attended events online and in person while remaining eager to perform and share stories.
"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 added.
Organization leaders emphasized that his broad impact across the industry would endure.
"He meant so much to so many, and the legacy of his life will live on," the guild stated.
Trooper Events UK, which managed the Abbey Con event where Le Drew was scheduled to appear this autumn, also released a statement.
"We are deeply saddened to announce the loss of a dear friend and supporter of our events, Ronnie Le Drew.
Ronnie was one of the friendliest and kindest people we had the pleasure of knowing," the organizers said.
The event management team reflected on the warmth he shared with fans and colleagues. "He always brought warmth and kindness with him, and he will be missed dearly.
We send our love and deepest condolences to all of Ronnie's family and friends who have lost such a beautiful person," they said.
Organizers confirmed that Le Drew's health deteriorated unexpectedly prior to his planned return to the convention floor.
"Ronnie was due to return to Abbey-Con this year, but sadly his health suddenly took a turn for the worse.
We will miss him dearly and remember him always," they said. The convention group concluded, "Rest in peace, Ronnie.
You will never be forgotten."
