Bill Kenwright dead at 78: Everton FC chairman and Corrie star passes away after liver cancer battle

EVERTON chairman Bill Kenwright has died aged 78 – months after undergoing surgery to remove a cancerous tumour.

The former Corrie star went under the knife in August this year when a growth was found on his liver.

Bill Kenwright has tragically passed away Credit: 2019 Simon Stacpoole/Offside

Kenwright was forced to stay in intensive care for a long time due to complications from the procedure.

But he was told he could continue treatment at home and was released from hospital earlier this month.

Tragically, his death was announced by his “devastated” family, including partner Jenny Seagrove and daughter Lucy.

They said Kenwright died last night “peacefully” surrounded by his loved ones after a “long battle with illness”.

Actress Jenny also shared a photo of Kenwright on X (formerly Twitter), saying: “Lost my dear Bill last night.”

Tributes have been pouring in since the 78-year-old’s death was announced.

Boxer Tony Bellew said: “Thank you is all I can say! You were always there to support me and help me as much as you could!

“You are one of the best people I’ve ever had the pleasure of calling a friend.

“Thinking of Jenny and his daughter Lucy. Good night my friend. Rest in peace President!”

Singer Antony Costa said he was saddened to hear his “friend and mentor” had passed away.

In a post to X, Costa said: “I just heard the news that my friend, mentor and person who gave me the opportunity to perform on stage, Mr. Bill Kenwright, has passed away.

“You were one in a million sir…we loved talking football RIP Bill xx.”

Jason Manford also paid tribute.

He wrote on social media: “I am saddened to hear that Bill Kenwright has died.

“I’ve met him a few times over the years as we’ve tried to work together, so sad it’s never going to happen now.

“He was always witty and honest with a deep love for the theater and football. Unfortunately, we will miss him.”

‘INSPIRATION’

In his own statement, Everton said the club was “in mourning” following the tragedy.

The team added: “Everton’s longest-serving chairman for over a century, Bill Kenwright has led the club through a period of unprecedented change in English football.

“A lifelong Evertonian, he became a board member on 23 October 1989 and then on Boxing Day 1999 his consortium True Blue Holdings took over the club. Initially vice-chairman, he succeeded his close friend Sir Philip Carter as chairman in 2004.

“In his 19 seasons as chairman, the Club secured 12 top eight finishes, including a top four finish in 2005, a run to the FA Cup final in 2009 and European qualification on 6 separate occasions.

“The club has lost a chairman, a leader, a friend and an inspiration. The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Everton are with his partner Jenny Seagrove, his daughter Lucy Kenwright, his grandchildren and all who knew and loved him.”

Everton previously said Kenwright was still carrying out his club duties even while recovering from surgery.

He has been chairman of the Toffees since 2004 after first joining the board in 1989.

Kenwright was also one of Britain’s most successful theater producers.

His most famous productions include the West End hit Blood Brothers and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

‘INFLUENCED THE LIVES OF THOUSANDS’

Kenwright was also a judge on the 2007 BBC series Any Dream Will Do.

The former actor, who had a role in Coronation Street in 1968, was in a relationship with theater star Jenny Seagrove.

He was previously married to actress Anouska Hempel from 1978 to 1980, and then went on to date Virginia Stride, with whom he has a daughter and two grandchildren.

His family said: “Bill was driven by his passions and devoted his life to them; his deep love of theatre, film, music and his beloved Everton and the families they created.

“He impacted the lives of thousands of people, whether it was through launching careers or through his undying loyalty, generosity and unwavering friendship and support.

“In an award-winning career spanning six decades, Bill has produced over 500 West End, Broadway, UK touring and international theater productions, films and music albums. His impact on the arts industry has been profound.

“During his time as majority shareholder and chairman of Everton FC, Bill led the club through a period of unprecedented change in English football.

“He will be remembered with great love and admiration – the shows will of course go on, as he wanted, and his great legacy will live on.

“A celebration of Bill’s life and career will be announced in due course. We ask for privacy and respect for Bill’s family and friends at this very difficult time.”