David Soul, the actor known for his role in Starsky & Hutch, passes away at the age of 80
His wife, Helen Snell, expressed that those who were touched by his life will cherish his laughter and zest for life in their memories.
David Soul, famed for his role as Hutch in the 1970s American detective series “Starsky & Hutch,” has passed away at the age of 80, as confirmed by his wife, Helen Snell.
The actor, known for his portrayal in the hit TV series that aired from 1975 to 1979, also left his mark in the thriller film “Magnum Force” (1973) as officer John David and in the soap opera “The Yellow Rose” as Roy Champion.
Mrs. Snell released a statement noting that her late husband, described as a “beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother,” peacefully departed on Thursday, 4th January, following a courageous battle, surrounded by his loving family.
Paying homage to the actor, Ms. Snell remarked, “His infectious smile, laughter, and zest for life will remain cherished memories for all those whose lives he touched.”
Before his venture into acting, Soul pursued a musical career. He showcased his singing talent on The Merv Griffin Show and made appearances in the 1960s dolphin series Flipper.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, he graced various TV series, making his mark in productions like Star Trek, Perry Mason, and Johnny Got His Gun.
Soul’s breakthrough arrived when he starred as Officer John Davis in the 1971 police film “Magnum Force,” revolving around Inspector Harold Callahan, portrayed by Clint Eastwood.
His portrayal of the nostalgic writer Ben Mears in the 1979 adaptation of Stephen King’s “Salem’s Lot” further cemented his acting prowess.
In the 1970s, Soul also briefly ventured into pop stardom, achieving a chart-topping hit in both the US and UK with the ballad “Don’t Give Up On Us Baby” in 1976.
Born in 1943 in Chicago, Illinois, he spent his early years in South Dakota and Berlin, Germany. His father, Dr. Richard Solberg, a history and political science professor and an ordained minister, relocated the family to Berlin, serving as a religious affairs adviser to the US high commission.
After relocating to the UK in the 1990s, he graced the stages of London’s West End and later appeared in BBC shows such as Holby City and Little Britain.
In 2015, expressing his affection for the UK, he shared with MailOnline, “Britain is beautiful. I’m particularly fond of South Devon and the starkness of Dartmoor. I appreciate being in a country steeped in history. Although I return to the States about three times a year since all my five sons live there, my daughter resides here.”
Soul entered matrimony five times, tying the knot with actresses Mirriam Solberg, Karen Carlson, Patti Carnel Sherman, Julia Nickson, and fathered six children.
He met Ms. Snell during his performance in Deathtrap, where she handled public relations for the play. He fondly referred to her as his “soulmate.”
Additional information contributed by the Press Association.
This news story is developing and will be continuously updated.
