Remembering David Soul: Iconic Starsky & Hutch Actor Passes Away at 80

Renowned for his portrayal of Detective Kenneth "Hutch" Hutchinson in the beloved Starsky & Hutch series, actor David Soul has left us at the age of 80.

 

Confirming the sad news, his wife, Helen Snell, revealed that he passed away on Thursday after bravely fighting for his life, surrounded by loved ones. Helen shared, “He was not just an actor but a gifted storyteller, creative artist, and a cherished friend, leaving a lasting impact on those he touched with his infectious smile, laughter, and zest for life.”

 

The US-born actor, born David Solberg on August 28, 1943, achieved fame alongside Paul Michael Glaser in Starsky & Hutch, a classic crime-solving series that captivated audiences from 1975 to 1979. In 2004, Soul and Glaser reprised their roles in the remake, featuring Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson.

 

Beyond Starsky & Hutch, Soul showcased his talent in diverse roles, including appearances in Here Come The Brides, Magnum Force, and The Yellow Rose. His portfolio extended to British television, with notable roles in Holby City, Little Britain, and Lewis, leading him to attain British citizenship in 2004.

 

Despite numerous opportunities to venture into reality TV, Soul declined, expressing, “These days anybody is a celebrity, and, frankly, there's nothing to celebrate.” This decision reflected his commitment to authenticity and a deeper appreciation for the craft.

 

While Soul faced personal challenges, such as legal troubles in the 1980s, he emerged with newfound purpose, addressing domestic violence issues by engaging with inmates in prisons and expressing regret for his past actions.

 

Before becoming a household name in acting, Soul commenced his professional journey as a folk singer, sharing the stage with musical luminaries like Frank Zappa, the Byrds, and the Lovin’ Spoonful. Initially inspired by indigenous Mexican music during his teenage years, Soul's foray into folk music laid the foundation for his later success.

 

As "The Covered Man," Soul gained recognition on the TV talk show circuit, but it was his unmasking that led to a shift towards acting. His credits include Star Trek, Here Come The Brides, Perry Mason, and Johnny Got His Gun, establishing him as a versatile performer during the 1960s and 1970s.

 

Following his breakthrough in Clint Eastwood’s Magnum Force, Soul returned to music post-Starsky & Hutch, releasing four albums of soft rock ballads in the late 1970s. His singles, "Silver Lady" and "Don't Give Up On Us," soared to UK number one spots, resonating with fans who admired his TV persona.

 

Despite initial success, Soul faced a tumultuous period marked by legal troubles and rehab. Post-rehab, he released only one more album in 1997, titled "Leave a Light On."

 

In his personal life, Soul had five marriages, including unions with actresses Sherman, Mirriam Solberg, Karen Carlson, and Julia Nickson, fathering six children. He found his soulmate in Helen Snell, whom he met during a performance of Deathtrap.

 

David Soul's legacy lives on through his timeless contributions to both television and music. As fans mourn the loss of a multifaceted talent, his impact on the entertainment industry and his commitment to addressing societal issues remain an integral part of his enduring legacy.