Ronnie Le Drew, Puppeteer for Zippy and David Bowie's Labyrinth Characters, Dies at 78
Ronnie Le Drew, a Canadian-born British puppeteer celebrated for his work on iconic children's television and film, has passed away at the age of 78 following a brief illness. The British Puppet Guild, where Le Drew served as president, confirmed the news of his death. He was widely recognized for his role as the operator of Zippy, a beloved character from the classic children's program "Rainbow." Le Drew's extensive career also included significant contributions to the fantasy film "Labyrinth" (1986), where he worked alongside David Bowie, and the musical "Little Shop of Horrors" (1986). His talents were further showcased in various Muppet productions, including "The Muppet Christmas Carol" (1992). Additionally, Le Drew was a regular collaborator on different "Sooty" shows, often performing as Sweep, the loyal sidekick to the titular character, working with Harry and Matthew Corbett.
Ronnie Le Drew's passing marks the end of an era for a generation that grew up with his memorable puppet characters. His career highlights the enduring appeal and technical skill involved in puppetry, a craft that requires significant physical dexterity and emotional expressiveness to bring inanimate objects to life. The longevity of characters like Zippy and the success of projects like "Labyrinth" underscore the vital role puppetry plays in storytelling across different media. As technology advances, Le Drew's work serves as a reminder of the human element in performance and the unique connection audiences form with skillfully operated characters, prompting reflection on how traditional crafts adapt and thrive in the digital age.
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