Kenneth Cope has died at the age of 93.
The TV legend, who had roles on Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased) and Brookside, rose to prominence in 1961 after landing the role of Jed Stone in Coronation Street.
Jed debuted in the 38th episode of the legendary ITV soap, which is still running today, appearing between 1961 and 1963 as lodger to Minnie Caldwell, who referred to him as Sunny Jim.
The character appeared rather sporadically and he would later return in 1966, starring in 56 episodes during that respective year.
Over 40 years later, Jed staged one final time comeback, this time for a long-running storyline that saw him cross paths with Tony Gordon.
Corrie wasn’t the only time Kenneth featured in a soap, as he portrayed Ray Hilton in Brookside between 1999 and 2002.
![Editorial use only. Exclusive - Premium Rates Apply. Call your Account Manager for pricing. Mandatory Credit: Photo by ITV/REX/Shutterstock (1085048qb) Maria Connor [Samia Smith] is stunned when Jed Stone [Kenneth Cope] comes into the pub with Emily Bishop [Eileen Derbyshire] Tony Gordon [Gray O'Brien] is smug. 'Coronation Street' TV Series](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/SEI_221283427-cec8.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&zoom=1&resize=540%2C330)
His death was announced on X formerly known as Twitter by agent Sandra Chalmers.
‘Announcing the passing of a true icon #KennethCope,’ wrote Sandra on the social media platform.
”An absolute joy to work with and an honour to have known. A true gentleman in show business RIP.’
Away from soapland, Kenneth’s most recognisable role was that of Marty Hopkirk, the deceased private detective who returns as a ghost, on Randall And Hopkirk (Deceased), which aired between 1969 and 1970.
The series followed Marty Hopkirk, who was murdered during the first episode, as he returns as a ghost, much to the shock of partner Jeff, who is the only character who can see him.
Kenneth’s daughter Martha, also an actor, is best known for having starred on EastEnders as Dotty Cotton’s mum Sandy Gibson. More recently, she appeared on Hollyoaks as police officer.
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