Rondell's extensive career spanned over 50 years, earning him recognition in numerous films and TV shows, leaving a lasting legacy in Hollywood stunts.
**Legendary Stuntman Ronnie Rondell Jr. Passes Away at 88, Remembering His Iconic Career**
**Legendary Stuntman Ronnie Rondell Jr. Passes Away at 88, Remembering His Iconic Career**
Ronnie Rondell Jr., famous for his daring stunts and the explosive cover of Pink Floyd’s "Wish You Were Here," has died at the age of 88.
Ronnie Rondell Jr., a pivotal figure in the world of stunt performing, has passed away at the age of 88, as reported on August 12, at a care facility in Missouri. Best known for his unforgettable role in on the cover art of Pink Floyd’s legendary 1975 album "Wish You Were Here," Rondell’s career was marked by over five decades of daring feats across numerous film and television productions.
Born in California in 1937, Rondell entered the acting scene as a teenager with a role in the film "Ma and Pa Kettle at the Fair." His transition to stunt work began with the TV series "Soldiers of Fortune" from 1955 to 1957. Throughout the '60s to the '90s, he gained notoriety with performances in iconic series like "Charlie's Angels" and films such as "Spartacus" and "The Karate Kid." One of his most memorable stunts involved leaping from a flaming pole in the movie "Kings of the Sun."
Rondell was also involved in high-energy action scenes, including a bar brawl in "Blazing Saddles" and intricate fire sequences in "The Towering Inferno." As the founder of the Stunts Unlimited company established in 1970, he contributed to many productions until his retirement in 2001, with a final credit in "The Matrix Reloaded" in 2003.
Even though many may not immediately recall his name, his striking image, captured during the infamous Pink Floyd photo shoot where wind shifted the flames toward his face, ensuring he stands out in the annals of rock history. In recognition of his significant contributions to the field, he received a lifetime achievement award at the Taurus World Stunt Awards in 2004.
Rondell's family legacy in film continues with his father, Ronald R. Rondell, an actor and assistant director known for "Around the World in 80 Days," while his sons have also been involved in the entertainment industry, with one unfortunate tragedy occurring in 1985 when son Reid lost his life while performing a helicopter stunt for "Airwolf."
