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LEGEND LOST
Mike Yarwood dead: Beloved TV impressionist and comedian dies age 82 after career spanning decades
BELOVED TV impressionist and comedian Mike Yarwood has died at the age of 82 - after a career spanning decades.
The Royal Variety Charity announced this evening that the star has passed away.
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Yarwood became a household name in the 1960s and 1970s with his impressions of politicians and other celebrities.
He played famous faces including Brian Clough, Prince Charles, Prince Andrew, Ted Heath, Harold Wilson and Alf Garnett on The Mike Yarwood Show.
The star spent his later years at the Royal Variety Charity's Brinsworth House, in Twickenham, south-west London, and died in hospital on Friday.
Yarwood was born on June 14 1941 in Bredbury, Cheshire, and was a lifelong supporter of Stockport County football club.
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He was married to dancer Sandra Burville from 1969 and 1985, and is survived by their daughters Charlotte and Clare.
The Royal Variety Charity said it was deeply saddened to announce his death, adding: "He leaves behind an immeasurable void in the entertainment industry."
It continued: "Mike Yarwood quickly rose to prominence for his exceptional ability to mimic the voices and mannerisms of countless celebrities and public figures.
"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.
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The charity added: "Throughout his career, Mike graced television screens nationwide, becoming a household name in the 1960s and 1970s.
"His variety shows, including The Mike Yarwood Show, and Mike Yarwood In Persons, captivated audiences and showcased his uncanny talent for mimicry on prime-time television for two decades.
"The Mike Yarwood Show (1977) holds the record for the largest single Christmas Day audience of 21.4 million viewers.
"Mike's family have asked that their privacy be respected during this sad and difficult time."
Piers Morgan led tributes to Yarwood after news of his death broke.
He said: "Massive TV star when I was growing up, and such a gifted comedian and impressionist.
"RIP Mike, and thanks for all the laughs."
Emma Freud said: "Goodbye Mr Mike Yarwood. Thank you for casting me in your shows as Princess Diana.
"Still incomprehensible to me that it happened but you were lovely to work with."
BBC director-general Tim Davie said: "Mike Yarwood was simply one of the greats. Part of the golden generation of entertainers that defined television for decades.
"From Harold Wilson to Frank Spencer, his legendary impressions were always pin sharp, warm and funny. We will remember them all with a smile.
"He was rightly one of Britain's most loved performers and will be hugely missed. Our thoughts are with his family."
Television comedian Kate Robbins posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: "So sad to hear the great Mike Yarwood has died. I was lucky enough to work with him in the 80s. The guv'nor of impressionists.
"When I was Sarah Brightman to his Cliff Richard we could hardly get anything done for laughing so much. Thanks, Mike. You were always a star to me."
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LBC presenter Iain Dale posted: "Today we've lost a titan of comedy, Mike Yarwood was one of the biggest stars of TV comedy in the 1970s.
"He was the impressionist's impressionist and blazed the trail for those that followed in his wake, yet he was sometimes underappreciated."
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