David Soul, the American actor who captured hearts with his portrayal of the cool and collected Ken “Hutch” Hutchinson in the 1970s television series “Starsky & Hutch,” passed away on January 5, 2024, at the age of 80. His death was confirmed by his wife, Helen Snell, who stated that he died “after a valiant battle for life in the loving company of family.”

David Soul Early Life

Born David Soul Smith in Chicago in 1943, Soul’s artistic journey began early. He studied music and theater, eventually landing roles in Broadway productions like “West Side Story” and “The Unsinkable Molly Brown.” His television debut came in the 1960s with shows like “The Virginian” and “Gunsmoke,” but it was his portrayal of Hutch in “Starsky & Hutch” that catapulted him to international fame.

The show, which ran from 1975 to 1979, was a cultural phenomenon. Soul’s chemistry with co-star Paul Michael Glaser, who played the flamboyant David Starsky, was undeniable. Their contrasting personalities – Hutch, the stoic intellectual, and Starsky, the impulsive streetwise charmer – made for a dynamic duo that captivated audiences worldwide.

Beyond his acting prowess, Soul was also a talented singer. His recording of the show’s theme song, “Don’t Give Up on Us,” became a chart-topping hit in Europe, further solidifying his status as a multi-faceted entertainer.

After “Starsky & Hutch,” Soul continued to act in television and film, appearing in shows like “The Love Boat” and “Murder, She Wrote.” He also wrote and performed his own music, releasing several albums throughout his career.

Soul’s legacy extends far beyond his acting and singing. He was a beloved figure, known for his kindness, generosity, and dedication to his craft. His death is a loss to the entertainment industry and to fans around the world who were touched by his talent and charisma.

Remembering David Soul: A Life in Pictures

• Early Days: A young David Soul, radiating charisma even in his early years.
• Broadway Star: Soul on stage, captivating audiences with his theatrical performances.
• Hutch is Born: Soul steps into the iconic role of Ken “Hutch” Hutchinson in “Starsky & Hutch.”
• Starsky & Hutch Duo: Soul and Glaser as the beloved partners, their contrasting styles creating magic on screen.
• Musical Soul: Soul showcasing his musical talents, both on screen and off.
• A Life Well-Lived: A montage of images capturing Soul’s journey, from his early days to his later years.

Soul’s personal life, including his marriage and children

David Soul’s personal life was as multifaceted as his career. He was married five times and had six children:

• Mirriam “Mim” Solberg (1964-1965): Soul’s first marriage was to actress Mim Solberg in 1964, but it lasted only a year. They had one son, Joseph.
• Karen Carlson (1968-1977): After meeting on the set of “Here Come the Brides,” Soul married actress Karen Carlson in 1968. They had one daughter, Cynthia.
• Lynne Marta (relationship during the 1970s): While filming “Starsky & Hutch,” Soul had a long-term open relationship with actress Lynne Marta.
• Patti Carnel Sherman (1980-1983): In 1980, Soul married Patti Carnel Sherman, ex-wife of his “Here Come the Brides” co-star Bobby Sherman. Their marriage was tumultuous, resulting in Soul’s arrest for assaulting her while she was pregnant. They had one son, Jake.
• Julia Nickson (1987-1993): After divorcing Patti, Soul married actress Julia Nickson in 1987. They had one daughter, China Soul, who became a singer-songwriter.
• Helen Snell (2010-present): In 2010, Soul married his fifth wife, Helen Snell, after meeting her while performing in the British stage production of “Deathtrap.” They remained together until his death.

Despite the turbulence in some of his marriages, Soul always prioritized his family life. He remained close to his children and grandchildren, often expressing his love and admiration for them. He was known for his devotion to his friends and his kindness to others, demonstrating that his character extended far beyond his on-screen roles.

Starsky & Hutch Partners in Tributes: Remembering David Soul

The news of David Soul’s passing sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and the hearts of fans worldwide. Tributes and fond memories have poured in from those who knew him best, both on and off the screen.

Fellow Actors:

• Paul Michael Glaser, Starsky: “He was my brother in crime, literally and figuratively. We were friends for 50 years, we worked together for five years, and I will miss him every day. David was the most generous, kind, and giving person I ever knew. He was a fantastic actor, a great singer, and a good friend. The world just lost a great one.”
• Barbara Bain, Peggy Ryan in Starsky & Hutch: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of David Soul. He was a kind, gentle, and talented man who brought joy to millions of people around the world. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”

• Ryan O’Neal, Love Story co-star: “Dave was a great guy, a real professional. He was always prepared, always knew his lines, and he was a lot of fun to work with. We had some laughs on the set of Love Story. I’ll miss him.”

Musicians:

• Michael Omartian, Starsky & Hutch theme song composer: “David was a true artist, not just an actor. He had a wonderful voice and a deep understanding of music. He made ‘Don’t Give Up on Us’ a hit, and I will always be grateful for his friendship and support.”

• Shirley Bassey, Bond theme song singer: “David was a charming and wonderful man. We met at a charity event years ago, and we hit it off right away. He was a great fan of my music, and I told him I was a fan of his! He will be greatly missed.”

Fans:

• @StarskyHutchFan on Twitter: “RIP David Soul. You were the coolest detective on TV, and you made Hutch one of the most beloved characters ever. Thank you for the memories.”

• @StarskySoulmate on Instagram: “My heart is broken. David Soul was my hero, my inspiration. He taught me to be kind, to be strong, and to never give up on my dreams. Thank you for everything, Ken Hutch.”

David Soul’s impact on popular culture is undeniable. He leaves behind a legacy of entertainment, music, and a reminder that even the coolest of characters can be kind and compassionate. His absence will be felt, but his memory will continue to bring joy to fans for generations to come.

Rest in peace, David Soul. You will be missed.

You may read about David Soul in detail in Following:

• Wikipedia

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