David Soul: ‘Starsky & Hutch’ star who 'shared many extraordinary gifts in the world' dies at 80

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: David Soul, the famous crime-solving series ‘Starsky & Hutch’ star died at the age of 80 on Thursday, January 5. It was confirmed by his wife Helen Snell, who said, “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," she added.

"His smile, laughter, and passion for life will be remembered by the many whose lives he has touched," she continued.

David Soul's long health battle 

He played the character of Detective Kenneth ‘Hutch’ Hutchinson in the popular series.

Soul suffered from a series of health issues throughout his life, which included cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, as per BBC News.

“It took its toll and I quit about 10 years ago, [but] you can’t reverse the condition," he shared back then.

“One thing I can’t do now, which is my livelihood, is sing or work in the theatre. My voice has dropped considerably and I don’t have the vocal range or the power," he added.

“I’m a fighter and I did fight my way through this thing. There is no question about it, but without Helen, I never would have made it. She’s magnificent. Phew, What a strong lady. She was as much a part of my getting better as the doctors were," he continued.

“When I’m surrounded by my six children, I feel rich. Soul said. Talking about his co-star, the actor said, “Paul Glaser is still my best friend. We can disagree on everything, or agree on everything, but he still remains a significant part of my life. I love the guy.”

David Soul was arrested  on domestic violence charges

The actor-singer, was married five times and was arrested in the 1980s for assaulting his then-wife, Patti Carnel Sherman, when she was seven months pregnant. It was his first offence and charges against him were dropped after serving a probationary diversion programme.

Soul later expressed his regret and visited prisons to talk to inmates about domestic violence.