“Starsky & Hutch” actor Paul Michael Glaser is heartbroken after the death of his co-star and “brother,” David Soul. Their enduring bond was poignantly displayed in 2017, when Glaser was seen pushing Soul’s wheelchair at a public event, testament to their deep connection.
David Soul, renowned for his role as detective Kenneth “Hutch” Hutchinson on “Starsky & Hutch,” passed away at the age of 80. His wife, Helen Snell, confirmed his death, praising him as a “beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother.”
Soul died “after a valiant battle for life in the loving company of family,” according to the widow. She highlighted his multifaceted talents as an actor, singer, storyteller, and artist, noting his impact on many lives.
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Paul Michael Glaser, Soul’s co-star, expressed his grief, referring to Soul as a “brother, a friend, a caring man.” He shared, “We shall never see his like again.”
Glaser reflected on their close relationship, saying, “Seems only yesterday that we were sharing loving insults on the phone.” He finds it hard to grasp the reality of his friend’s passing.
The 80-year-old actor acknowledges the gradual process of mourning, stating, “I suspect that I will let myself feel his loss, our loss, only gradually.” He shared his condolences with Soul’s family, especially Helen, whom Soul deeply cherished.
Extending sympathies to Soul’s children, Glaser recognized their loss. He thanked the public for appreciating the special bond he shared with Soul.
David Soul’s legacy extends beyond his family to the many fans of “Starsky & Hutch.” The show, which aired from 1975 to 1979, featured Soul and Glaser as California detectives.
Despite the decades that have passed since “Starsky & Hutch,” the two actors remained very close. At Liverpool Comic Con in 2017, Glaser was seen pushing Soul’s wheelchair, a poignant image of their lasting friendship.
Starsky & Hutch's Paul Michael Glaser pushes wheelchair-bound David Soul as pair reunite https://t.co/xKEdNWRwR5 pic.twitter.com/2qDRPLlSTI
— Daily Express (@Daily_Express) March 15, 2017
Soul’s attire of slippers and the presence of a walking stick highlighted his need for assistance, which Glaser willingly provided. The actors, then both 73 years old and gray-haired, were captured truly enjoying time with each other.
Soul expressed gratitude for their lasting friendship to the audience at the event. He confessed that their bond was built “from the heart,” noting “that’s very rare, and I’m really grateful for that.”
Glaser shared with the audience his thoughts on the show’s lasting appeal. He believes the depth of the characters’ relationships continues to resonate with fans even today.
In November 2023, Soul affirmed their bond with a tweet about a recent phone call with Glaser. He declared, “He is and will always be my best friend, my brother.”
