ITV Coronation Street legend dies as tributes pour in for 'true icon'
Beloved actor Kenneth Cope, known for roles including on ITV's Coronation Street, has died aged 93. The news was confirmed by his acting agent Sandra Chalmers on Thursday (September 12) who labelled the star as "true icon".
In her statement, Sandra said Kenneth was "an absolute joy to work with and an honour to have known. A true gentleman in show business RIP". Over countless decades, Kenneth appeared in Coronation Street as Jed Stone, first appearing in 1961 before his final appearance in 2009, reports the Express.
News of the actor's passing saw a wealth of tributes paid online. One said: "Farewell to Kenneth Cope, gone at 93. Loved him in everything he did from Coronation Street, The Avengers, Doctor Who, several Carry On films but he will forever be the ghostly Marty Hopkirk for me in Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased) A series way ahead of its time."
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Kenneth's career spanned over 50 years, starting with his debut in the 1953 mini-series Johnny, You're Wanted. He became a stalwart of TV, gaining recognition for his portrayal of Marty Hopkirk in the cult classic Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased) in 1969,
Kenneth enjoyed parts in beloved Carry On comedies including Carry On At Your Convenience and Carry On Matron, and featured in Doctor Who as Packard in 1981. His acting credits extended to Casualty among other dramas.
But perhaps Kenneths most enduring legacy lies within the realm of British soaps, having played Ray Hilton in Brookside across more than 150 episodes from 1999 to 2002. He was particularly admired for his portrayal of Jed in Corrie over his numerous appearances over the decades.
Kenneth was also known for more than just his acting skills. He tied the knot with Renny Lister, who also featured in Coronation Street. They have two sons, Nick and Mark, founders of the rock outfit The Candyskins, and a daughter, Martha, who followed in her parents' footsteps into the world of soaps, having appeared in Corrie, Emmerdale, and EastEnders.
Kenneth died at home in Southport, Liverpool.
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