It’s with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to an iconic figure from the world of entertainment. David Soul, who became a household name for his unforgettable role as Detective Kenneth “Hutch” Hutchinson in the classic series Starsky & Hutch, has passed away at the age of 80. His wife, Helen Snell, shared the heartbreaking news in a statement on Friday, January 5.
“David Soul — beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother — passed away yesterday after a courageous fight for life, surrounded by the love and support of his family,” the statement read. “Throughout his life, he shared countless gifts with the world as an actor, singer, storyteller, creative artist, and cherished friend. His infectious smile, hearty laughter, and unyielding passion for life will forever be remembered by all those lucky enough to have crossed paths with him.”
A Legacy That Shone Bright
From 1974 to 1979, David Soul brought the character of Hutch to life alongside his co-star, Paul Michael Glaser, who played Detective Dave Starsky. Together, they formed one of television’s most iconic duos, capturing the hearts of millions worldwide. The series not only ran for four memorable seasons but also became a global phenomenon in syndication. In 2004, the duo reunited for a big-screen adaptation of Starsky & Hutch, starring Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson, proving that their bond transcended time.
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A Friendship Forged in Fame
The journey to fame with the ABC program created an unbreakable bond between Soul and Glaser. While they openly admitted to having their share of ups and downs over the years, their friendship remained strong despite living on opposite sides of the Atlantic. Paul spoke fondly of their connection in a July 2023 interview with Closer, highlighting the camaraderie that extended beyond the screen.
“David and I had our moments, but we shared a deep and genuine relationship,” Paul fondly recalled. “We truly cared for each other, and we remain great friends to this day. I talk to him every month or two. Whenever I visit England, we catch up in person. Beyond just the two of us, we developed an incredible sense of camaraderie with the entire crew. It was a special time in our lives.”
Neither Soul nor Glaser could have predicted the massive success of Starsky & Hutch. Paul reflected on those early days, saying, “When I first auditioned, I thought, ‘This will never make it as a series.’ But once we got the role, it quickly turned into a massive hit. It all happened so fast.”
A Multifaceted Talent
David Soul wasn’t just an actor; he was a versatile artist with a knack for music. Beyond his role as Hutch, he starred in other notable projects like Here Come the Brides, Magnum Force, and The Yellow Rose. As a musician, he released hit songs such as “Don’t Give Up on Us” and “Silver Lady,” showcasing his incredible talent.
Throughout his illustrious career, Soul faced health challenges, including battles with cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Despite these obstacles, he found solace and fulfillment in his move to the U.K., where he embraced a new chapter of life.
“I fell head-over-heels for Britain many years ago and decided to make it my home,” he wrote on his website. “I’ve never regretted that decision. Over here, I wasn’t just Hutch. I was respected for my music and various forms of acting, including theater, which I’ve always been passionate about.”
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