In a poignant farewell to a legend whose daring defined an era, Ronnie Rondell Jr., the stuntman who famously braved the flames for Pink Floyd’s ‘Wish You Were Here’ album cover, has passed away at the age of 88. Rondell took his final bow at a senior living center in Missouri on Tuesday, August 10, as confirmed by his family.
The legendary stuntman became a rock icon when he agreed to light himself on fire for one of the most memorable album covers in music history. Aubrey Powell, the photographer behind the shot, recounted the perilous endeavor to the Guardian in 2020. Rondell initially expressed reluctance, noting, “It’s dangerous for a man to stand still on fire.” He elaborated that normally, a stunt involving flames would require movement to control the blaze.
Despite his reservations, Rondell committed to the shoot, donning a suit and wig soaked in flame retardant. The daring feat required him to be set aflame 15 times to capture the perfect image. Powell recalled that on the final attempt, a gust of wind wrapped the fire around Rondell’s face, causing burns and prompting him to call it quits. Yet, that very shot turned out to be the magic moment that would forever etch Rondell’s contribution into the annals of rock history.
Powell reflected, “I knew I had got a special picture. It took a long time to persuade Ronnie to stand exactly as I wanted, but in the end, he was very brave, and it was a perfect composition.”
The legacy of Ronnie Rondell Jr. extends beyond a single album cover; it represents a time when art demanded real danger and when the people behind the scenes became part of the mythos. As we bid adieu to this fearless performer, we remember him not just for his bravery but for the indelible mark he left on rock culture. Rest in peace, Ronnie. You will forever be the man who stood still in the fire.
