Starsky & Hutch actor David Soul dies aged 80

David Soul, the actor and singer best known for his role as Hutch in the 1970s television series Starsky & Hutch, has died at the age of 80.

His death was confirmed by Helen Snell, his wife, who 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.”

Born in the US, Mr Soul became known for his role as Detective Kenneth “Hutch” Hutchinson in Starsky & Hutch alongside Paul Michael Glaser, who played Detective Dave Starsky.

He moved to the UK in the 1990s to pursue a career in the West End and later appeared in the BBC shows Holby City and Little Britain.