RIP, Gerry Anderson - creator of supermarionation.

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SUMMARY

Gerry Anderson, the British creator of the iconic sci-fi series "Thunderbirds," passed away at the age of 83 due to complications from mixed dementia. His son, Jamie Anderson, confirmed that Gerry died peacefully in his sleep at a nursing home in Oxfordshire. Anderson's innovative use of "supermarionation" revolutionized puppetry and made science fiction mainstream during the 1960s, with "Thunderbirds are go!" becoming a cultural catchphrase.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of puppetry techniques, specifically "supermarionation."
  • Familiarity with the cultural impact of 1960s television shows.
  • Knowledge of Gerry Anderson's contributions to the sci-fi genre.
  • Awareness of the evolution of British television programming.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the history and techniques of "supermarionation" in puppetry.
  • Explore the legacy of Gerry Anderson's other works, such as "Fireball XL-5" and "StingRay."
  • Investigate the cultural significance of "Thunderbirds" in the context of 1960s media.
  • Watch episodes of "Thunderbirds" to analyze its storytelling and production techniques.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for fans of classic television, puppetry enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the evolution of science fiction in media.

Astronuc
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LONDON (AP) — Gerry Anderson, puppetry pioneer and British creator of the sci-fi hit "Thunderbirds" TV show, has died. He was 83.

Anderson's son Jamie said his father died peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday at a nursing home near Oxfordshire, England, after being diagnosed with mixed dementia two years ago.

His condition had worsened dramatically over the past six months, his son said.

Anderson's television career launched in the 1950s. Once "Thunderbirds" aired in the 1960s, "Thunderbirds are go!" became a catchphrase for generations. It also introduced the use of "supermarionation" — a puppetry technique using thin wires to control marionettes — and made sci-fi mainstream, according to Jamie Anderson.

. . . .
http://news.yahoo.com/gerry-anderson-thunderbirds-creator-dies-83-181021889.html

I watched the Thunderbirds back during the 60s, and some where I have (or had) a die-cast Thunderbird 2, my favorite vehicle.

I also have the entire TV series on DVD. :biggrin:

I also watched Fireball XL-5 and StingRay.


Thunderbirds are go!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2K9rVRuehGU
 
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Oh my god I haven't watched that since I was a kid in the 90's, and I loved it then! RIP Gerry Anderson!