Shane Rimmer, James Bond and ‘Thunderbirds’ Actor, Dies at 89

Obits

Canadian actor also appeared in “Gandhi,” the “Superman” films and “Dr. Strangelove”

Shane Rimmer Superman II
Warner Bros.

Shane Rimmer, a Canadian actor known for his leading voice role as a pilot on the series “Thunderbirds” and appeared in multiple James Bond movies, has died. He was 89.

According to the official website of Gerry Anderson (via the Guardian), who created “Thunderbirds,” Rimmer’s widow confirmed that he died on Friday in his home. No cause of death was given.

Rimmer provided the voice of Scott Tracy in the British TV series “Thunderbirds” between 1965 and 1966, and he also starred in three different James Bond films, including “You Only Live Twice,” “Diamonds Are Forever” and “The Spy Who Loved Me.” He also appeared in the “Superman” films, “Gandhi,” “Dr. Strangelove,” “Out of Africa” and even had an uncredited part in “Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope.” He appeared in over 100 films in all.

Rimmer said in an interview with The Washington Times that doing the James Bond films were among the favorite moments in his career.

“Some of the things that I really liked doing were smaller efforts where I had a chance to move into a part and really give it a full blast,” Rimmer said. “Not compromise with anything or have anything else intrude on that work you’re doing.”

He also worked behind the scenes as a screenwriter for television, writing episodes of the shows “Captain Scarlet and the Mysterons,” “Joe 90” and “The Protectors.”

Most recently, Rimmer provided his voice for a character for the cult kids’ show “The Amazing World of Gumball” in 2017.

Brian Welk

Film Reporter • brian.welk@thewrap.com • Twitter: @brianwelk

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