Ronnie Le Drew, the Canadian-born British puppeteer renowned for operating the iconic puppet Zippy on the children’s television program *Rainbow*, has died at the age of 78 following a short illness. Le Drew’s career spanned several decades and included work on notable productions such as the 1986 film *Labyrinth* alongside David Bowie, the same year’s *Little Shop of Horrors*, and various Muppet movies, including *The Muppet Christmas Carol* released in 1992.

Le Drew was a prominent figure within the puppeteering community, serving as president of the British Puppet Guild for the past decade. The Guild issued a statement expressing their sorrow at his passing, describing him as "possibly the most active and supportive president we have ever had or will have."

*Rainbow*, which first aired in 1972 and was produced continuously by Thames Television until 1992, featured a cast of puppet characters including Zippy and George. While Le Drew operated Zippy, the character’s voice was originally provided by Roy Skelton, noted for also voicing the Daleks in *Doctor Who* between 1967 and 1988. Skelton passed away in 2011 at age 79. His vocal work contributed significantly to the enduring appeal of Zippy, who was characterized as a brash, outspoken figure, in contrast to the quieter and more reserved pink hippopotamus, George.

Le Drew’s contributions to children’s television and the wider puppeteering arts were widely recognized, and his legacy continues to be remembered by colleagues and audiences alike.