Liverpool-born actor and writer Kenneth Cope has died at the age of 94.
The venerable performer passed away ‘peacefully in his sleep’ on Wednesday surrounded by his wife and family members.
Cope was best known for his portrayal as Marty Hopkirk in the lead role of Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased) which ran between 1969 and 1970.
In later years he featured in a host of TV and film productions including a spell in his native city with Brookside as Ray Hilton from 1999 until 2002.
A statement from Cope’s agent described him as a ‘natural comedy actor… a proud native Liverpudlian and a loyal supporter of Everton Football Club.
“We are deeply saddened by his passing and ask that his family are given privacy at this time,” read the statement.
“He is survived by his loving wife Renny Lister and his children Nick, Mark and Martha.”
Cope’s former Brookie co-star Michael Starke paid tribute to the late actor as a ‘proper gentleman’ after news had broken on Thursday of his passing.
He said: “We had a few scenes together, and I remember he was a sweet man.
“He never had a cross word for anyone and was always really generous. I liked him a lot.”