Actor John Bluthal Has Died

John Bluthal Has Died

John Bluthal, the man who voiced gruff and efficient Commander Zero of the World Space Patrol in Fireball XL5 has died at the age of 89.

John began his acting career in the late 1950s before going on to voice the regular roles of Commander Zero and Jock Campbell in Fireball XL5, as well as voicing countless guest characters and “aliens of the week”.

He appeared in over 100 credited roles in productions as diverse as ITC action series like The Saint and Man In a Suitcase to big screen comedies such as Carry On Spying and the spoof James Bond film Casino Royale and even appeared in the classic sci-fi epic The Fifth Element.

Despite his numerous credits, John is probably best remembered for his memorable role as boring-but-likeable secretary of the parish council, Frank Pickle, in the popular British sitcom The Vicar Of Dibley.

Confirming news of his death, talent agency The Artists Partnership said: “It is with much sadness that we must let you know the legendary actor John Bluthal passed away on 15th November 2018 in New South Wales, Australia. “He died peacefully in hospital, surrounded by loving family members, following complications from a fall. He leaves behind beloved daughters Lisa and Nava.”