Corrie and Carry On star Kenneth Cope passes away aged 93

Kenneth Cope, the beloved British actor and writer best known for his role in the detective series Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased), has died at the age of 93. According to a statement from his agent, Cope “passed away peacefully in his sleep” on Wednesday, surrounded by his wife and family. In Randall and Hopkirk, Cope portrayed Marty Hopkirk, a detective who returns as a ghost after being murdered—a role that helped the show achieve cult status since its original airing in 1969-1970 and a later remake in 2000 by Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer.

Cope was also recognized for his portrayal of Jed Stone on Coronation Street and his involvement with the Carry On films, showcasing his natural talent for comedy. His agent described him as “a proud native Liverpudlian” and a dedicated Everton Football Club supporter. The statement added, “We are deeply saddened by his passing and request privacy for his family during this time.” He is survived by his loving wife Renny Lister and his children, Nick, Mark, and Martha.

Beginning his career in theatre, Cope transitioned to film and television, landing roles in popular shows like Brookside, That Was The Week That Was, Doctors, The Bill, Truckers, and Last of the Summer Wine. He played Jed Stone in 128 episodes of Coronation Street from 1961 to 2009 and Ray Hilton in Brookside for 171 episodes between 1999 and 2002. Cope’s colleague Michael Starke, known as Sinbad from Brookside, remembered him as a “proper gentleman” who was “always generous and kind.” Cope also starred in leading roles in Carry On at Your Convenience (1971) and Carry On Matron (1972).

Music by Yevhen Onoychenko from Pixabay