Possible Clues:

• Marionette operator
• Punch and Judy operator
• Person pulling the strings?
• One pulling the strings at work?
• Elevate favourite with protection of fellow who pulls strings
• One controlling the strings
• Conceited youth, favourite with English queen and one able to pull strings
• Soft drug support occupies one holding the strings?
• Jim Henson, notably
• His work may have strings attached