David Soul, acclaimed for his portrayal of Detective Kenneth “Hutch” Hutchinson in the classic TV series “Starsky & Hutch,” has passed away at the age of 80.
His death was confirmed by a representative, as reported to Fox News Digital.
“David Soul – beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother – died yesterday after a valiant battle for life in the loving company of family. He shared many extraordinary gifts in the world as actor, singer, storyteller, creative artist and dear friend,” his wife, Helen Snell, announced in a statement.
She added, “His smile, laughter and passion for life will be remembered by the many whose lives he has touched.”
Soul’s fame soared through his role in “Starsky & Hutch,” co-starring with Paul Michael Glaser, from 1975 to 1979. His acting career also included roles as Joshua Bolt in “Here Come the Brides” (1968-1970) and Officer John Davis in “Magnum Force” (1973).
In addition to acting, Soul had a successful singing career, with hits like “Don’t Give Up on Us” in 1976 and “Silver Lady” in 1977.
Born in Chicago in 1943, Soul’s early life was influenced by his father, Dr. Richard Solberg, a respected academic and minister. Soul lived in Berlin and Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and later studied in Mexico City, where he first ventured into entertainment.
Starting as a musician in a coffee house near the University of Minnesota, Soul’s unique path led him to stage acting and becoming a founding member of the Firehouse Theater in Minneapolis. He gained national fame as the “Covered Man” on “The Merv Griffin Show” in 1966 and 1967, which marked the beginning of his ascent in the entertainment industry.
The series “Starsky & Hutch,” where Soul starred alongside Glaser, was a major hit on ABC from 1975 to 1979, inspiring merchandise and a 2004 film adaptation in which Soul and Glaser made cameo appearances.
