Bill Kenwright, the esteemed chairman of Everton and a renowned figure in the world of West End theatre and film production, has passed away at the age of 78.
Kenwright had undergone surgery to remove a cancerous liver tumor just eight weeks prior to his passing.
His association with Everton dated back to 1989 when he joined the board, eventually assuming the role of chairman at Goodison Park in 2004.
Hailing from Liverpool, Kenwright was not just a prominent figure in football but also one of the United Kingdom’s most successful theatre producers. He even graced the screens as Gordon Clegg in the popular soap opera Coronation Street from 1968 to 2012.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions to film and theatre, Kenwright was honored with a CBE in the 2001 New Year’s Honours List.
Everton, the club he served devotedly, expressed deep mourning at the loss of their longest-serving chairman in over a century, stating, “The club has lost a chairman, a leader, a friend, and an inspiration.”
On October 12th, the Premier League club had announced that Kenwright had undergone a successful operation to remove the cancerous tumor from his liver but faced complications that required an extended stay in the intensive care unit.
Kenwright’s family shared the sad news, revealing that he passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones, emphasizing his lifelong dedication to his passions: theatre, film, music, Everton, and the families they created.
In a career spanning six decades, Kenwright produced over 500 West End, Broadway, UK touring, and international theatre productions, as well as films and music albums. His family assured that his legacy would continue as the shows he loved would carry on.
Leading Everton for nearly two decades, Kenwright oversaw 12 Premier League top-eight finishes, including a remarkable fourth place in 2005. The club also reached the FA Cup final in 2009 during his tenure.
His departure from the club in recent times saw a shift in ownership, with Farhad Moshiri acquiring a majority stake. Despite some controversy and criticism from fans, Kenwright remained committed to Everton until his passing.
From the cobbles of Coronation Street to the director’s chair, Kenwright’s journey was marked by versatility. Starting as an actor, he found his way into producing theatre productions, achieving great success with hits like “Blood Brothers” and “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.”
His influence extended across the entertainment industry, with notable stars like Sir Ian McKellen, Dame Judi Dench, Woody Harrelson, and Billie Piper gracing his productions.
Bill Kenwright leaves behind a lasting legacy, not just in football but in the world of entertainment, where his contributions will be celebrated for generations to come. Everton, the theatre world, and his fans around the globe mourn the loss of a true legend.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Bill Kenwright Legacy
Q: Who was Bill Kenwright, and what were his significant contributions?
A: Bill Kenwright was a multifaceted personality known as the chairman of Everton Football Club and a highly successful theatre and film producer. His remarkable contributions spanned the realms of football and entertainment, making him an iconic figure in both industries.
Q: How long did Bill Kenwright serve as the chairman of Everton?
A: Bill Kenwright spent 19 seasons as the chairman of Everton, from 2004 until his passing in 2023. During his tenure, Everton achieved numerous top-eight finishes in the Premier League and reached the FA Cup final in 2009.
Q: What made Bill Kenwright notable in the world of theatre and film production?
A: Bill Kenwright’s legacy in theatre and film production was marked by his successful productions of over 500 West End, Broadway, and international theatre shows, as well as films and music albums. His ability to bring iconic productions like “Blood Brothers” and “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” to life set him apart in the entertainment industry.
Q: How did Bill Kenwright’s career evolve from acting to producing?
A: Bill Kenwright began his career as an actor, notably appearing in Coronation Street. However, he transitioned to producing to create opportunities for himself and discovered his talent for producing theatre productions. This shift led to his illustrious career as a theatre and film producer.
Q: What is Bill Kenwright’s lasting impact on the entertainment industry?
A: Bill Kenwright’s influence extended far and wide, with renowned actors like Sir Ian McKellen, Dame Judi Dench, Woody Harrelson, and Billie Piper starring in his productions. His work continues to shape and enrich the world of theatre and entertainment, leaving a profound and enduring legacy.
Q: How did Bill Kenwright’s association with Everton evolve over the years?
A: Bill Kenwright joined Everton’s board in 1989 and eventually became the club’s chairman in 2004. He played a significant role in guiding Everton through various phases in English football, including top-eight finishes and an FA Cup final appearance. His association with the club continued until his passing in 2023.
More about Bill Kenwright Legacy
- Bill Kenwright, Everton chairman and theatre producer, dies aged 78 (BBC Sport)
- Bill Kenwright – A Life in the Theatre (The Stage)
- Everton FC Official Website (Official Everton FC website)
- Bill Kenwright’s IMDb Profile (IMDb)
5 comments
Everton lost a legend, we’ll miss him in the chairman’s seat.
so sad about Bill Kenwright, big figure in Everton, theatre, and films, great loss.
can’t believe he was also in coronation street, wow!
Bill Kenwright, a true icon of stage and football, his legacy lives on.
bill kenwright did so much for theatre, amazing productions!