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Bill Kenwright, Theater Producer Behind Blood Brothers and Heathers the Musical, D

Renowned theater producer Bill Kenwright has died at the age of 78 following a long illness, his family confirmed.

The theater impresario, who began his entertainment career as an actor in 1967, was known for backing projects including the long-running West End musical “Blood Brothers” as well as shows including “Calendar Girls” and “Heathers the Musical.” As an actor, he was a regular in long-running soap “Coronation Street,” playing Gordon Clegg, and also appeared in shows including “Dream Team” and “England, My England.”

Over the course of his six decade-long career, he produced over 500 projects including West End and Broadway productions, U.K. tours, films and music albums.

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Among his most recent film productions were “The Kill Room” starring Uma Thurman and Joe Manganiello and Samuel L. Jackson, and Patrick Marber-penned feature “The Critic.”

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Kenwright, who oversaw Bill Kenwright Ltd, was also the chairman of U.K. soccer club Everton F.C.

“Following a long battle with illness Bill passed away peacefully last night, surrounded by his family and loved ones,” his wife Jenny Seagrove, daughter Lucy Kenwright and representatives from Bill Kenwright Ltd, said in a statement.

“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, whether that be through the launching of careers or his unending loyalty, generosity and unfaltering friendship and support. We will remember him with huge love and admiration – the shows will of course go on, as he would have wished, and his towering legacy will continue.”

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