Actor David Soul, renowned for his iconic role in the TV series Starsky & Hutch, passed away at the age of 80, as confirmed by his wife, Helen Snell. She revealed that he succumbed to the challenges of life on Thursday, surrounded by family.
Remembered for his multifaceted talents as an actor, singer, storyteller, and creative artist, Soul’s contributions left a lasting impact on those he touched. His notable role as Detective Kenneth “Hutch” Hutchinson alongside Paul Michael Glaser in Starsky & Hutch from 1975 to 1979 remains a hallmark in television history.
Beyond Starsky & Hutch, Soul showcased his acting prowess in various projects, including the 2004 remake of the series.
His career extended to British television, with appearances in shows like Holby City, Little Britain, and Lewis. In 2004, he acquired British citizenship, demonstrating his connection to the UK.
Despite his success, Soul declined opportunities to participate in reality television, emphasizing his belief that not everyone deserves celebrity status.
His commitment to his principles extended to his personal life, as he publicly addressed and regretted a past incident involving domestic violence, later dedicating efforts to raising awareness about the issue.
Born David Solberg in Chicago in 1943, Soul’s journey to fame began as a folk singer before transitioning to acting. His early experiences in Mexico, where he learned indigenous songs, shaped his musical inclinations.
Success followed when he adopted the persona of “The Covered Man” and embarked on a career that saw him warming up audiences for renowned artists.
Soul’s acting breakthrough came with his role in Clint Eastwood’s Magnum Force, leading to his iconic portrayal in Starsky & Hutch.
Following the show’s success, he returned to music, achieving chart-topping success with UK number one singles like “Silver Lady” and “Don’t Give Up On Us.”
While Soul’s personal life included five marriages, he found enduring companionship with Helen Snell, whom he referred to as his “soulmate.”
Despite the highs and lows of his life, David Soul leaves behind a legacy of entertainment and artistic brilliance that will be remembered by fans worldwide.