Hollywood Stuntman Ronnie Rondell Jr., Famous for Pink Floyd Cover, Passes Away at 88
Ronnie Rondell Jr. had a legendary career as a stuntman and actor, known for his daring stunts and contributions to iconic films and albums.
Ronnie Rondell Jr., the celebrated Hollywood stuntman renowned for his fiery appearance on the cover of Pink Floyd’s album 'Wish You Were Here,' has passed away at the age of 88. He died on August 12 at a care home in Missouri, as reported in his online obituary. Rondell's impressive career spanned over 50 years, working on notable productions including 'Lethal Weapon,' 'Thelma and Louise,' and 'Star Trek: First Contact.' He is survived by his wife, Mary, and his son, Ronald. Born in California in 1937, Rondell began his acting journey in the 1950s and transitioned into stunt work with early roles in series like 'Soldiers of Fortune.' Throughout the decades, he performed stunts in classic films such as 'Spartacus' and 'Blazing Saddles,' with one of his most memorable feats being a flaming leap in 'Kings of the Sun.' Despite his reluctance, Rondell famously endured burns during the iconic album shoot for Pink Floyd, where he displayed tremendous professionalism. Co-founding Stunts Unlimited in 1970, he became a mentor to many aspiring stunt performers, earning recognition for his unparalleled contributions to the industry. He retired in 2001 but received a final stunt credit for 'The Matrix Reloaded' in 2003 and was honored with a lifetime achievement award in 2004. His legacy not only includes his successful career but also his family's deep ties to the entertainment world.
Ronnie Rondell Jr. had a legendary career as a stuntman and actor, known for his daring stunts and contributions to iconic films and albums.
Ronnie Rondell Jr., the celebrated Hollywood stuntman renowned for his fiery appearance on the cover of Pink Floyd’s album 'Wish You Were Here,' has passed away at the age of 88. He died on August 12 at a care home in Missouri, as reported in his online obituary. Rondell's impressive career spanned over 50 years, working on notable productions including 'Lethal Weapon,' 'Thelma and Louise,' and 'Star Trek: First Contact.' He is survived by his wife, Mary, and his son, Ronald. Born in California in 1937, Rondell began his acting journey in the 1950s and transitioned into stunt work with early roles in series like 'Soldiers of Fortune.' Throughout the decades, he performed stunts in classic films such as 'Spartacus' and 'Blazing Saddles,' with one of his most memorable feats being a flaming leap in 'Kings of the Sun.' Despite his reluctance, Rondell famously endured burns during the iconic album shoot for Pink Floyd, where he displayed tremendous professionalism. Co-founding Stunts Unlimited in 1970, he became a mentor to many aspiring stunt performers, earning recognition for his unparalleled contributions to the industry. He retired in 2001 but received a final stunt credit for 'The Matrix Reloaded' in 2003 and was honored with a lifetime achievement award in 2004. His legacy not only includes his successful career but also his family's deep ties to the entertainment world.
