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Kenneth Cope’s former co-star has issued a heartfelt statement following the actor’s death on Wednesday.
Robin Askwith took to Twitter as he paid tribute to the late Coronation Street star, revealing he was one of the first actors he ever worked with.
Robin, who also went on to star in the Weatherfield soap, wrote: ‘So sorry to hear about Kenneth Cope passing away at 93 One of the first actors I ever worked with… Individual, encouraging and generous…. RIP.’
The pair appeared together in a 1969 episode of Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased).
Kenneth, best known for the iconic soap and several Carry On films, died at the age of 93.
Kenneth Cope’s former co-star Robin Askwith issued a heartfelt statement following the actor’s death on Wednesday
Robin took to Twitter as he paid tribute to the late Coronation Street star, revealing he was one of the first actors he ever worked with
Robin, who also went on to star in the Weatherfield soap, wrote: ‘So sorry to hear about Kenneth Cope passing away at 93 One of the first actors I ever worked with… Individual, encouraging and generous…. RIP’
His former agent, Sandra Chalmers, confirmed he died surrounded by his family on Wednesday in his hometown of Southport in Sefton, Merseyside, the area where he was born in 1931.
A statement from Cope’s family said they were ‘deeply saddened’ by the news.
It read: ‘It is with great sadness the family wish to announce the passing of Kenneth Cope 14/04/1931 – 11/09/2024.
‘Ken passed away yesterday peacefully in his sleep with his wife and family by his side.’
The statement continued: ‘An incredible icon of British TV and film known famously for his role as Marty Hopkirk in Randall and Hopkirk, Jed Stone in Coronation Street as well as part of the Carry On team.
‘His career spans six decades and contributed to some of the most iconic moments in British culture. Ken was a proud native Liverpudlian and a loyal supporter of Everton Football Club.
‘He began his career in theatre quickly picking up many film and TV roles. He was a natural comedy actor and was a main contributor to the comedy series That Was The Week That Was and swiftly became a regular figure across the acting industry.
‘We are deeply saddened by his passing and ask that his family are given privacy at this time. He is survived by his loving wife Renny Lister and his children Nick, Mark and Martha.’
‘Ken passed away yesterday peacefully in his sleep with his wife and family by his side’. his family revealed in a statement (pictured with wife Renny Lister in 2001)
Cope is survived by his loving wife Renny Lister and his children Nick, Mark and Martha (pictured with one of his sons in 1969)
The statement continued: ‘His career spans six decades and contributed to some of the most iconic moments in British culture’ (pictured in Carry On Matron)
Other X users shared: ‘I’m very sad to hear that Kenneth Cope has died. He was wonderful as Jed Stone in the very early days of Coronation Street, and worked beautifully with Margot Bryant. That relationship between Jed and Minnie Caldwell was just brilliant’;
‘Very sad to hear of the passing of #KennethCope Absolutely loved #RandallAndHopkirk as a kid then had the thrill of working with Kenneth on #Minder A pinch myself moment.
‘Iconic TV legend…What a career he had. Sending condolences and love to his family & loved ones.’;
‘Awww, Kenneth Cope’s gone. I adore him as Marty Hopkirk. Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased) is my comfort-viewing of choice. It worked its magic when I broke my shoulder and during the weirdness of the first lockdown. Due a re-watch, I think.’