Bill Kenwright has died: West End theater and film producer was 78

Bill Kenwright, the British West End theater and film producer who also starred Coronation Street, died at the age of 78.

Everton Football Club, where Kenwright was chairman for 20 years, shared the news: “The club has lost a chairman, a leader, a friend and a source of inspiration,” the statement read.

Another statement from Kenwright’s Bill Kenwright Limited said it was “devastated to share the news” and described him as a “beloved partner, father, grandfather and friend”.

“Bill was driven by and dedicated his life to his passions: his deep love of theatre, film, music and his beloved Everton and the families they created,” the statement read. “He touched the lives of thousands, whether by launching careers or through his undying loyalty, generosity and unwavering friendship and support.”

Kenwright was one of Britain’s most successful theater producers, including as blood brothers, Joseph and the amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat And Cabaret. He helped launch the careers of many other current West End producers such as Mark Rubinstein and Marc Sinden and had a knack for success including other hits The Wizard of Oz, Jekyll and Hyde And Evita.

He has also produced numerous films since 1991 go out and ends most recently in 2019 The fanatic. Additional film credits included Cheri, don’t break my heart And Broken.

He was born in Liverpool, acted from a young age and landed a role on ITVs Coronation Street as Gordon Clegg before leaving to continue producing. He was also chairman of Everton and had his own record label, Bill Kenwright Records.

Kenwright is survived by his partner Jenny Seagrove and Lucy Kenwright.

BAFTA awarded End of the parade Director Susanna White described Kenwright as a “wonderfully generous person who lived to the full like a star,” she added Andor Director.

Boys and dolls Actor Mark Oxtoby added to X: “I’ve always loved Bill. He gave me my first job in the West End and you always knew what he was thinking. Good or bad.”

Liverpool FC, Everton’s biggest rivals, said: “The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool FC are with Bill’s family, friends and everyone at Everton.”