Farewell to an icon: Starsky and Hutch star David Soul dies, age 80

In a sombre moment for fans of classic television, David Soul, the charismatic actor best known for his role as Detective Ken “Hutch” Hutchinson in the iconic 1970s TV series Starsky and Hutch, has passed away at the age of 80.

His wife, Helen Snell, took to social media on Friday, January 5 to announce his passing, revealing that he died surrounded by family.

“David Soul—beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother—died yesterday after a valiant battle for life in the loving company of family,” she wrote.

“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 August 28, 1943, Soul embarked on an illustrious acting career in the 1960s, initially captivating audiences at the avant-garde Firehouse Theatre in Minnesota. Spanning across the decades, Soul left his mark on both stage and screen, with his pinnacle achievements occurring in the 1970s.

In the iconic TV series Starsky & Hutch, Soul’s portrayal of detective Ken “Hutch” Hutchinson, alongside Paul Michael Glaser as detective David Starsky, earned him widespread recognition. Airing from 1975 to 1979 on ABC, the show became a cultural phenomenon, even inspiring a line of children’s toys.

Beyond acting, Soul showcased his musical talents, achieving success with chart-toppers like Don’t Give Up On Us, Going In With My Eyes Open, and Silver Lady.

Throughout his career, Soul made notable TV appearances, gracing shows such as Star Trek, All in the Family, and I Dream of Jeannie. He also took on iconic roles in the miniseries Salem’s Lot and a brief stint in the film classic Casablanca’s short-lived adaptation, stepping into Humphrey Bogart’s shoes as nightclub owner Rick Blaine.

In the realm of cinema, Soul’s contributions included memorable roles in Magnum Force, The Hanoi Hilton, and a noteworthy cameo alongside Glaser in the 2004 big-screen remake of Starsky & Hutch, featuring Ben Stiller as Starsky and Owen Wilson as Hutch.

As news broke of his passing, fans flooded social media platforms with a torrent of heartfelt tributes, sharing cherished memories and iconic moments from Soul’s career.

R I P David Soul. They don’t make em like they use to. 🫶🏽#starskyandhutch pic.twitter.com/qoYgCkgJl4

— Dat Brown Skin Gal 🐾🎸🇬🇩🇻🇨🇳🇬🇵🇸 (@missdemenor) January 5, 2024

RIP David Soul, actor, singer & here in Salem’s Lot (1979) Vampire Slayer, thanks for helping create some great moments. pic.twitter.com/MGfl7FLFhh

— John Pitchford🌹💙 (@Johnnypapa64) January 5, 2024

RIP David Soul (80) who played a big part in our childhood as a Hutch in ‘Starsky and Hutch’ (1975-79). pic.twitter.com/uuA959ouxi

— I❤️Nostalgia ‘𝕏’ (@il0venostalgia) January 5, 2024

One of the best..xx pic.twitter.com/re2OEHbxnz

— cramtheman (@cramtheman) January 5, 2024

Sad news. Starsky & Hutch were a big, and very cool, part of my teenage viewing. Over the years I enjoyed seeing David pop up acting or singing in unexpected places, but what I most appreciated was his choice to become a Brit and live here. He was so welcome. #RIPDavidSoul🇺🇸🇬🇧

— Clarissa Reilly (@clarescastle) January 5, 2024

RIP. Watched Starsky and Hutch in the 70’s and then watched the syndicated reruns in the 80’s. I remember his single “Don’t Give Up on Us” all over AM radio as an 8 year old. Thank you David for the great memories. Condolences to the family

— David Potts (@DivineTurbine) January 5, 2024

He is survived by his wife Helen and his six children.

-with AP.