As perhaps the most mature member of The Hollywood News fraternity, it seems fitting that I get to pay tribute to perhaps one of the biggest names from my own childhood… Gerry Anderson. The creator of such classic television series as STINGRAY, CAPTAIN SCARLETT and of course THUNDERBIRDS, passed away in his sleep on Boxing Day at the age of 83.
The sad news was posted on Gerry’s son, Jamie’s website shortly after the TV legend passed away. The short message read the following: “I’m very sad to announce the death of my father, Thunderbirds creator, Gerry Anderson. He died peacefully in his sleep at midday today (26th December 2012), having suffered with mixed dementia for the past few years. He was 83.”
I remember countless Sundays sitting down to watch THUNDERBIRDS and CAPTAIN SCARLETT, and even remember watching JOE 90, another of Anderson’s creations that inspired a generation. He was famous for pioneering a process called Supermarionation, which was the art of transforming puppets into living, breathing, almost life-like creations, the likes of which were seen in all of the aforementioned titles.
He is survived by widow Mary, along with three children from former marriages, Joy, Linda and Gerry Junior, and his son Jamie.
Rest in peace Gerry. Here’s some of his finest moments on British television.
Source: AP
