VOICE OF RUDOLPH REINDEER SAYS GOODBYE

The actor that gave birth to the voice of the lead character of the most recognizable holiday classic in history, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer has passed away.
Billie Mae Richardson, a radio star for over 25 years on Canadian radio voiced the male character  in 1964 and subsequently had to add "Billie" her name so not to give away the fact that she was a female in the cartoon credits.

After the release of the classic and when she was confronted by people that discounted the fact that she voiced the character she would call up the voice and show them on the spot to their surprise. Richardson also returned to provide Rudolph's voice in 1976 Rudolph's Shiny New Year and in 1979 Rudolph and Frosty's Christmas in July.
Richardson passed away at the prime age of 88.