Robert Axelrod, best known to Power Rangers fans as the voice of the notorious Lord Zedd, has died aged 70.
Earlier today, the actor's agency Mobile Monicker Productions confirmed he had passed away in Los Angeles, commenting: "His beautiful and kindred soul will never be forgotten and we take comfort in knowing his memory will live on in all those he inspired, met and knew."
Born in New York City in 1949, Axelrod found work in commercial and theatrical acting before making his name as a guitarist, playing in folk, rock and soul bands.
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However, after moving to Los Angeles, he later returned to the world of acting, appearing in over 30 feature films including The Blob and Alice in Wonderland.
He also found success as a voice actor, landing roles in animated children's series such as Dogtanian and Around the World with Willy Fog in the 1980s.
In 1994 Axelrod received his highest profile role - that of the villainous Lord Zedd in the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers TV series. This performance was so successful that he reprised the role in the first Power Rangers film and live shows, and also voiced additional characters in the show's various sequel series.
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He also voiced many characters in the popular anime series Digimon, in addition to similar projects including Akira and Cowboy Bebop.
In recent years he has appeared in several productions with US comedy duo Tim Heidecker and Eric Wareheim, and has made regular appearances at comic and sci-fi conventions.
Fans have taken to social media to share their sadness at his passing, with fellow voice actor Kaiji Von Tang posting: "Robert Axelrod was a legend. A childhood voice. Before my time is through, I will tell many more people about Lord Zedd. The best villain on television. I've only had the pleasure of meeting him twice, but both times he radiated grace and charm. We'll miss you Mr. Axelrod."
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Another fan added: "Lord Zedd is still my favorite villain and a symbol of how deviating from the Japanese source material can be done right. Robert Axelrod has done a number of voices, and it's a shame to see that he's passed on. As fans, all we can do is try our best to never forget him."
RIP Robert Axelrod.
Featured Image Credit: Ester Baculi and Kimberlee Becking (Creative Commons) / Saban EntertainmentTopics: TV and Film