Actor David Soul, 80, best known for his role as Detective Kenneth “Hutch” Hutchinson on the 1970s buddy cop series “Starsky & Hutch” has died. “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 wife, Helen Snell, said in a statement. “His smile, laughter and passion for life will be remembered by the many whose lives he has touched.”

David Soul’s defining moment in the limelight came in the mid-70s when he was cast in the role of Detective Ken “Hutch” Hutchinson for the iconic TV series, “Starsky & Hutch.” His charismatic and captivating performance as Hutch captivated audiences worldwide and secured his place in the pantheon of television greats. While he graced the screen in numerous roles throughout his career, it’s Soul’s embodiment of the charming detective that remains most ingrained in the hearts of viewers. Indeed, this role, brimming with wit, style, and intensity, set the stage for a career that would make him a household name, solidifying Soul’s imprint on the silver screen. Yet, it was just one facet of a multifaceted talent that also shone brightly in the world of music.

While Soul’s arresting on-screen presence is well-documented, his aptitude for music is another facet of his talent that deserves mention. Soul’s velvety voice was the driving force behind chart-topping singles such as “Don’t Give Up on Us” and “Silver Lady,” which dominated the UK Singles Chart in the late 1970s. Remarkably, “Don’t Give Up on Us” also soared to the zenith of the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, underlining Soul’s versatile talent. His ability to captivate audiences through both acting and singing highlights the unique duality of his Hollywood persona.