Comedian and impersonator Mike Yarwood dies aged 82 as touching tribute shared

08 September 2023 , 21:34

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Comedian Mike Yarwood, known for his impressions of politicians and other celebrities, has died

TV comedian and impersonator Mike Yarwood, who was known for his impressions of politicians and other celebrities, died aged 82, in hospital, the Royal Variety Charity has announced.

The comedian was one of the biggest starts of the 1970s with hit BBC shows and was famous for his impressions of former prime ministers Harold Wilson and Ted Heath, as well as Prince Charles.

The Royal Variety Charity announced his death in a statement, saying: “He leaves behind an immeasurable void in the entertainment industry. 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.

Mr Yarwood died in hospital on Friday (TV Times via Getty Images)

“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.”

Tim Davie, BBC Director-General 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."

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Mr Yarwood was known for creating catchphrase which became synonymous with public figures, even though those in question never used them, including "silly Billy" for former Chancellor Denis Healey and "I mean that most sincerely, folks" for TV presenter Hughie Green.

He regularly attracted audiences of more than 20 million but, his career began to decline in the 1980s. Mr Yarwood spent his latter years at the Royal Variety Charity's care home, Brinsworth House, in Twickenham, south-west London, and died in hospital on Friday. The impressionist was born on June, 14, 1941 in Bredbury, Cheshire, and was a lifelong supporter of Stockport County football club.

Charlotte McIntyre