Robert Axelrod’s agent has confirmed the actor passed away at the age of 70 in a statement today. The star was best known for voicing villainous character Lord Zedd in the 1993 children’s TV series Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. The statement read: ‘‘It is with a heavy heart that we write that client, Robert “Bob” Axelrod passed away yesterday in Los Angeles at the age of 70. “Robert enjoyed meeting his fans and inspiring them to follow their passions.”
Robert’s agent added: “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.”
The actor rose to fame in the popular superhero series and went on to star in spin-off shows.
Robert also lent his voice to programmes including Spider-Man: The Animated Series, Digimon and Ghost in the Shell.
He also featured in Family Matters, The Blob remake in 1998 and had a role in Michael Jackson’s Stranger In Moscow music video.
The multi-talented star was also a singer and guitarist in the 1970s and wrote 54 episodes of the animated version of Samurai Pizza Cats.
In recent years he has starred in several productions with US comedy duo Tim Heidecker and Eric Wareheim, and has regularly attended at comic and sci-fi conventions.
Robert’s cause of death has not been revealed, but the actor underwent major back surgery earlier this year.
A GoFundMe page was set up to help pay for his medical bills and the creator explained the Power Rangers favourite only had “enough funds to cover the next two months” of medical bills.
The page creator wrote at the time: “I’m saddened to report that Robert is still in the hospital and not doing much better.
“Insurance only covers so much and after nearly a year without work and mounting medical debt he only has enough funds to cover the next two months or so worth of bills.”
Fans took to Twitter to pay tribute to the actor, with one person writing: “It’s a sad day. Robert Axelrod has passed away, the voice of Lord Zedd is gone.
“A talented guy who’s voice was entertaining and scary at times. God Speed Robert, God speed.”
Another added: “Rest In Power, Robert. Your legacy goes well beyond a TV screen and it will not be soon forgotten. #robertaxelrod.”
“Lord Zedd wasn’t just a great Power Rangers villain. He was a great villain period.
“Not every show has to have a tragic back story or a redemption arc for the main villains, sometimes it’s just fun to have bad guys that are pure evil from start to finish. #RobertAxelrod,” a third fan replied.
A fourth Twitter user wrote: “I just heard about the passing of Robert Axelrod. He seemed like such a wonderful soul. And great person to just be around. I’ve always wanted to meet him and get to know him.
“Hugs and Prayers out to his close family, friends and colleagues at this time. Rest in Peace.”