Liverpool-born actor, director and producer Bill Kenwright CBE died on 23 October 2023 at the age of 78 after a long illness.
As an actor, Kenwright played Gordon Clegg in Coronation Street in 1968 and a few other roles, but as a producer, he has been responsible for more than 500 West End, Broadway, UK touring and international theatre productions, films and music albums, including Blood Brothers, which he directed in 1987 and is still touring.
He was also a keen football fan and had been Chairman of his beloved Everton FC. His partner is the actress Jenny Seagrove.
A statement from his family said, "Bill passed away peacefully last night, surrounded by his family and loved ones...
"We will remember him with huge love and admiration—the shows will of course go on, as he would have wished, and his towering legacy will continue.
"A celebration of Bill’s life and career will be announced in due course. At this very difficult time we ask for privacy and respect for Bill’s family and friends."