The Jim Henson Company’s facebook page announced today the passing of Jonathan Hardy, better known to fans of Farscape as the voice of Dominar Rygel XVI, the diminutive deposed ruler with an impressive pair of eyebrows.
Brian Henson posted these words to the page: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Jonathan Hardy. The clever wit and joy he brought to his performance of Rygel was a true gift to the world of Farscape. My sincerest condolences go out to Jonathan’s family and to his many fans around the world.”
And co-star Lani Tupu (Captain Crais, voice of Pilot) wrote on his facebook page, “. . . some sad news that I wish to pass on to you all. I am still dealing with it.
My dear Friend, Colleague, Acting Companion on all those past Conventions, my Teacher, Mentor and Second Theatre Boss, is no longer with us. Thank you, Jonathan for all your wonderful stories, your wicked wit…your time, advice and your friendship. I am going to miss you very much. Sail well, where ever your spirit takes you. It was a great journey we travelled in space together. I am so proud and privileged to have worked with you. Thank you so much Jonathan.
You were an Outstanding Dominar Rygel XV1! Xxx”
In addition to his role as Rygel, Hardy was a critically acclaimed screenwriter, receiving an Academy Award nomination and an Australian Film Institute award for Breaker Morant. He was born in Wellington, New Zealand on September 20, 1940 and passed away at the age of 71.
Hardy portrayed many characters during his nearly forty year career, including Labatouche in Mad Max starring Mel Gibson.
I’ve only just begun watching Farscape on Netflix recently, and if you’ve never watched it, do yourself a favor and see an episode or two. If only to see who the heck Rygel is. (And he’s quite a character).