Veteran Hollywood stuntman Ronnie Rondell Jr., best known for being set ablaze on Pink Floyd’s iconic ‘Wish You Were Here’ album cover, has died peacefully at age 88. The prolific performer passed away on August 12 at a care home in Missouri, concluding a trailblazing career spanning over five decades in film and television.
Rondell was a foundational figure in Hollywood stunt work, with credits ranging from 1950s classics like ‘Spartacus’ and James Bond’s ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ to modern blockbusters including ‘Lethal Weapon,’ ‘Thelma and Louise,’ and ‘The Matrix Reloaded.’ Beyond performing death-defying feats, he co-founded the prestigious Stunts Unlimited collective in 1970 and later worked as a stunt coordinator, helping design action sequences for films like ‘Batman and Robin.’ His career demonstrated remarkable longevity, formally retiring in 2001 but returning for 2003’s ‘The Matrix Reloaded.’
The stuntman achieved global recognition through his dangerous contribution to music history. In 1975, Rondell and fellow performer Danny Rogers were set on fire while shaking hands for the cover of Pink Floyd’s seminal album ‘Wish You Were Here.’ Despite protective measures including flame-retardant suits and cooling gel, the shoot proved hazardous when shifting winds blew flames into Rondell’s face during the 15th take, burning off his eyebrow and part of his signature mustache. Photographer Aubrey Powell noted Rondell treated the incident as ‘all in a day’s work,’ showcasing his professional dedication.
Rondell’s career began in his native California during the early 1950s, with his first stunt work appearing in the television series ‘Soldiers of Fortune’ (1955-1957). He became renowned for executing technically complex stunts, including a fiery pole jump in 1963’s ‘Kings of the Sun’ and elaborate fire sequences in 1974’s ‘The Towering Inferno.’ His television work spanned popular series including ‘Charlie’s Angels,’ ‘Dynasty,’ and ‘Baywatch,’ establishing him as one of Hollywood’s most sought-after stunt professionals.
The entertainment industry has responded with widespread tributes to Rondell’s legacy. Stunts Unlimited commemorated him as ‘a generous mentor whose talents set the bar’ and ‘not just a legend, but legendary.’ His contributions were formally recognized with a 2004 Lifetime Achievement honor at the Taurus World Stunt Awards. Pink Floyd has not yet issued an official statement, but the album cover remains one of rock music’s most iconic images.
Rondell’s death marks the end of a Hollywood dynasty. His father Ronald R. Rondell worked as an actor and assistant director on films like ‘Around the World in 80 Days’ (1956), while both of Rondell’s sons followed him into stunt work. The family endured tragedy when son Reid died during a 1985 helicopter stunt for the TV series ‘Airwolf.’ Rondell is survived by his wife Mary and son Ronald.
No public memorial plans have been announced, though private services are expected. Rondell’s legacy persists through his pioneering safety standards, mentorship of younger stunt performers, and indelible mark on both film history and music iconography through his courageous work for Pink Floyd.