Comedian and impressionist Mike Yarwood has died at the age of 82.
The comic became a household name in the 1970s and was famed for his impersonations of public figures such as Prince Charles and former prime ministers like Harold Wilson.
Announcing his death on Friday (September 8), the Royal Variety Charity said: “He leaves behind an immeasurable void in the entertainment industry.”
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They continued: “Mike Yarwood quickly rose to prominence for his exceptional ability to mimic the voices and mannerisms of countless celebrities and public figures.
(Image: Fremantle Media/REX/Shutterstock)
“His talent for impersonation brought smiles to the faces of millions and his unique ability to capture the essence of his subjects made him an icon in the comedy world.”
“Mike’s family have asked that their privacy be respected during this sad and difficult time,” they added.
Yarwood regularly attracted TV audiences of over 20million and his variety show The Mike Yarwood Show (1977) holds the record for the biggest single Christmas Day audience at 21.4million viewers.
(Image: Fremantle Media/REX/Shutterstock)
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He coined catchphrases that became synonymous with famous figures, despite these individuals never having uttered them.
Examples include “silly Billy” for former Chancellor Denis Healey and “I mean that most sincerely, folks,” for television host Hughie Green.
Tributes have poured in from famous figures and fans, with actress and singer Kate Robbins describing him as “the guvnor of impressionists”.
(Image: Fremantle Media/REX/Shutterstock)
Piers Morgan wrote: “Massive TV star when I was growing up, and such a gifted comedian and impressionist,” adding: “RIP Mike, and thanks for all the laughs”.
BBC director Tim Davie hailed Yarwood as “simply one of the greats”, and “one of Britain’s most loved performers”.
Yarwood was one of the most prominent entertainers on TV, making regular TV appearances from the 1960s until the 1980s.
Born on June 14, 1941, in Bredbury, Cheshire, Mike remained a devoted fan of Stockport County Football Club throughout his entire life.
He spent his later years at the Royal Variety Charity’s care home Brinsworth House in Twickenham.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
