American-British actor and musician David Soul, star of the 1970s’ hit television series Starsky & Hutch, has died at the age of 80.
Soul was known to audiences around the world for his role as Detective Kenneth “Hutch” Huchinson, starring opposite Paul Michael Glaser as Detective Dave Starsky in the beloved series.
The pair reprised their roles in the big screen remake in 2004, which starred Owen Wilson in the role of Hutch and Ben Stiller as Starsky.
Mr Soul’s wife Helen Snell said in a statement: “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 smile, laughter and passion for life will be remembered by the many whose lives he has touched.”
Soul also had a successful music career. His single “Don’t Give Up on Us,” hit the top of the charts around the world, including the US, in 1976.
He topped the UK charts again in 1977 with his song “Silver Lady.”
Soul was an accomplished stage actor, appearing in West End productions of Blood Brothers, Comic Potential and Jerry Springer – The Opera, where he played the titular role.
No stranger to Ireland, he starred in AR Gurney’s Pulitzer Prize-nominated play Love Letters in Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre.
