Zippy puppeteer and Rainbow legend Ronnie Le Drew dies aged 78 as family issues tribute

Ronnie Le Drew, the Canadian-born puppeteer who brought the beloved character Zippy to life on the children's television programme Rainbow, has died at the age of 78 after a short illness.

The British Puppet Guild, where Mr Le Drew served as president for a decade, broke the news on Monday.

His son John subsequently confirmed the death on X, writing: "John Ronnie's son here. We're devastated to announce that Dad passed away this morning, after a brief illness...

"We're all grieving and sorry for our loss of such a sweet, beautiful man. John, Liz and family."

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Mr Le Drew operated the iconic yellowish puppet from 1974 onwards, becoming one of the most recognisable figures in British children's entertainment across two decades on the programme.

In its tribute, the Guild described Mr Le Drew as "possibly the most active and supportive president we have ever had or will have".

The organisation praised his unwavering commitment to the puppetry community, noting that he attended virtually every gathering, whether held online or in person.

He was always ready to perform when called upon and eager to share stories and entertain in any way possible.

The Guild's statement acknowledged that while Mr Le Drew was most famous for his work as Zippy, his contribution to puppetry extended far beyond that single role.

"There will be countless puppeteers mourning the loss of our dear friend," the statement read.

"He meant so much to so many, and the legacy of his life will live on."

Rainbow was originally devised as a British counterpart to Sesame Street, launching in 1972 and running for 27 series.

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John Ronnie’s son here.

We’re devastated to announce that Dad passed away this morning, after a brief illness.

We’re all grieving and sorry for our loss of such a sweet beautiful man.

John, Liz and family pic.twitter.com/Zi0f0EMGAE

— Ronnie Le Drew (@Punchand) July 27, 2026

Each episode centred on events unfolding at the Rainbow House, where the main characters resided.

The puppet trio, Zippy, an indeterminate yellowish creature, Bungle the teddy bear, and George the hippopotamus, served as curious children exploring each instalment's theme.

David Cook was the programme's first presenter before Geoffrey Hayes assumed the role of a teacher-like figure from 1974.

Zippy was initially operated by Violet Philpott, who was compelled to leave after just one year owing to a back injury caused by the puppet's appearances being staged through a window.

John Thirtle briefly succeeded her before Mr Le Drew stepped into the role in 1974.

A rebooted version of the programme, produced by Tetra Films, launched in January 1994 with a substantially overhauled format and an almost entirely new cast.

The presenter role occupied by Mr Hayes was eliminated, placing Zippy, George and Bungle at the centre of the show.

Tetra Films could not afford to hire Roy Skelton as voice artist alongside Mr Le Drew as operator, which led to him taking on both duties, becoming Zippy's voice as well as his puppeteer.

Musical interludes were provided by Rod Burton, Jane Tucker and Freddy Marks, who were regular visitors to the Rainbow House.

The programme ultimately spanned 1,071 episodes before its cancellation in 1992.

Several of Mr Le Drew's former colleagues predeceased him.

Mr Marks died in 2021 aged 71 following a cancer battle, Mr Hayes died of pneumonia in 2018, and voice artist Mr Skelton suffered a stroke in 2011.

Fans of the beloved star were quick to take to social media to share their condolences.

"Sorry for your loss. Condolences to you and your family. Ronnie brought so much joy to the world," one fan wrote, as another penned: "So very sorry to read of your loss. Rainbow played a big part in my childhood & am so grateful. My home office has a special shelf ... forever remembered. Thinking of you all & sending lots of love x."

A third added: "Ronnie was one of a kind: so thoughtful, talented, funny, genuine. I was honoured to be able to work with him."

Someone else said: "I met him at a convention. He let me actually touch real-life Zippy, which I thought would be a strict no-no. I felt honoured. A lovely man." (sic)

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