Renowned puppeteer Steve Lee, a celebrated figure in British children's entertainment and a creative force behind Disney specials, has died at the age of 73. Lee passed away peacefully earlier this month at Brighton General Hospital following a battle with pneumonia.
Lee's remarkable career spanned decades, taking him across the globe. He co-founded The Puppeteers' Company in the 1980s alongside Peter Franklin, whom he had met while working at the Da Silva Puppet Company. The duo went on to captivate audiences on a string of popular BBC programmes, including the Paul Daniels Boxing Day special and the children's TV series "Stilgoes On."
The pair's talents extended beyond the small screen. They performed marionette cabaret on cruise ships worldwide, delighting audiences with their artistry. Their performances at arts festivals in Europe, Japan, and Hong Kong further cemented their international acclaim.
Lee's creative contributions also touched the realm of Disney. He was commissioned by The Walt Disney Company to write scripts for two primetime Disney Time specials, which were broadcast across the UK and Europe.
One of their most notable performances was a 1986 rendition of Oscar Wilde's "The Happy Prince" featuring a captivating display of ten puppets. The Puppeteers' Company's final curtain call came in 2012, with Peter Franklin sadly passing away shortly after.
Lee's passion for puppetry ignited after a visit to the International Puppet Festival in Colwyn Bay as a young man. He leaves behind his partner, Gril Mulluish, his sister Barbara, and his niece Kerry.
Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment industry, celebrating Lee's talent, dedication, and the joy he brought to millions of children. His legacy as a gifted puppeteer and a creative pioneer will continue to inspire generations to come.