David Soul Dies at 80

Actor and singer David Soul, best known for his role in the iconic television series "Starsky & Hutch," has passed away at the age of 80.

Riley Harper

2024-01-05
Updated 03:09 PM ET

(NewsNibs) - David Soul, the beloved actor famed for his portrayal of Detective Kenneth “Hutch” Hutchinson in the hit series "Starsky & Hutch," died surrounded by his family after a protracted battle for life, his wife Helen Snell announced. Soul, whose birth name was David Solberg, also made his mark as a musician with UK chart-topping singles. Holding dual citizenship in the US and the UK, he had a diverse career spanning television and stage on both sides of the Atlantic. His legacy in entertainment is marked by a wide array of roles in shows like "Here Come The Brides," "Magnum Force," and "The Yellow Rose," and appearances on British television in "EastEnders" and "Holby City," among others.

A Life in Spotlight and Tribute

Hollywood and beyond have commenced tributes, with actors Ben Stiller, Stephen King, and William Shatner expressing their condolences. Stiller, who co-starred with Soul in a "Starsky & Hutch" film cameo, celebrated the actor's contribution to the industry. Presenter Paddy McGuinness and illusionist Derren Brown shared personal reminiscences, emphasizing Soul's enduring influence. Born in Chicago on August 28, 1943, Soul's eclectic early life included time spent in South Dakota and post-war Berlin, mirroring the depth and variety he later brought to his roles.

Soul's initial aspirations in the music industry brought him success with appearances on "The Merv Griffin Show." His music career included hits like "Don’t Give Up On Us" and "Silver Lady." His acting career saw him in "Flipper," "Star Trek," and "Magnum Force," and he later found his way to the West End stage in "Blood Brothers" and in "Jerry Springer – The Opera." Soul was wed five times and had six children, meeting his last wife while working on the play "Deathtrap."

Remembering the Multifaceted Talent

David Soul leaves a legacy characterized by versatility, both in the roles he embraced and the life he led off-screen. His participation in seminal works of film and television, combined with his success as a recording artist, left a mark on an era of entertainment. His passing is mourned by peers, fans, and family who recall not just the characters he played, but the warm and generous spirit of the man himself.