Gerry Anderson, creator of Thunderbirds, dies at 83
Published 27 December 2012
Legendary British filmmaker Gerry Anderson has passed away aged 83. Anderson, who created hit TV shows Thunderbirds, Captain Scarlet and Stingray, was diagnosed with dementia in 2010 and spent the last years of his life fighting to raise awareness of the condition. He passed away peacefully at midday today (26 December) and is survived by his wife and four children.
Anderson began his television career in the 1950s and established himself as one of Britain's leading creative brains over a career spanning nearly six decades. Amongst his creations were the iconic characters Lady Penelope, Brains and Joe 90.
Having been diagnosed with mixed dementia aged 81, Gerry and his son Jamie became active supporters of Alzheimer's Society, recently taking part in the Society's flagship fundraiser Memory Walk.
Jeremy Hughes, Chief Executive at Alzheimer's Society said:
'Gerry Anderson has been an outstanding supporter of Alzheimer's Society and campaigner on behalf of people with dementia.
'He was determined, despite his own recent diagnosis, to spend the last year of his life speaking out for others living with dementia to ensure their voices were heard and their lives improved.
'With the support of his family, Gerry tirelessly attended events around the country to raise awareness of the condition and to raise funds for a cure.
'The last time I saw Gerry was at the start of our annual Memory Walk in September where he was our guest of honour and star starter alongside Carey Mulligan. Gerry, accompanied and supported by his son Jamie, stayed to speak to the crowds, wave off the walkers and shake hands with the many friends and fans who had come to meet him.
'Gerry Anderson will be missed not only by the worldwide fans of his TV shows, but by all of us at Alzheimer's Society who he has inspired to continue in our work to ultimately defeat dementia. Our sincere condolences go out to his wife Mary, son Jamie and all the Anderson family.'
Jamie Anderson has very kindly set up a JustGiving page to benefit Alzheimer's Society following his father Gerry's death yesterday:
http://www.justgiving.com/RememberingGerryAnderson
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Notes to editors:
- One in three people over 65 will develop with dementia
- Alzheimer's Society research shows that 800,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
- Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
- Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Alzheimer's Society has a plan to deal with dementia. Help us support people to live well today and fight for a world without dementia tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
- Alzheimer’s Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0300 222 11 22 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
