What happened to David Soul? The Legacy of a Television Icon from ‘Starsky & Hutch’

Born David Richard Solberg in Chicago on August 28, 1943, to June and Richard Solberg, both educators, David Soul’s early life was deeply rooted in education and faith. His father, a Lutheran minister, played a significant role in post-World War II European reconstruction.

Soul’s formative years were spent between Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Berlin before he graduated from Washington High School in Sioux Falls in 1961.

After a brief flirtation with baseball and turning down an offer from the Chicago White Sox, Soul’s passion pivoted towards music. He spent time in Mexico City, attending the University of the Americas. It was here that he not only learned the guitar but also honed his vocal skills, singing Mexican folk songs.

Emergence in Entertainment

Returning to the U.S., Soul’s first brush with fame was in the realm of music. He performed at a coffee house in Minneapolis, a venue previously graced by none other than Bob Dylan.

This stint was followed by his acting debut in New York, where he showcased his talent in John Arden’s play, “Sergeant Musgrave’s Dance.”

1965 marked a significant turning point in Soul’s career. Taking on the surname “Soul” and donning a unique masked persona as “The Covered Man,” he caught the attention of the William Morris Agency.

This gamble paid off, as the agency signed him without even seeing his face. His talent also secured him a contract with MGM Records, leading to appearances on popular shows like “The Merv Griffin Show.”

Television Stardom and Musical Success

By 1967, Soul had made his mark on television, guest-starring in iconic shows like “Flipper,” “I Dream of Jeannie,” and even a memorable appearance on “Star Trek.”

However, it was his role as Joshua Bolt in “Here Come the Brides” that solidified his position in the entertainment industry.

However, the apex of Soul’s profession accompanied the 1970s’ hit series “Starsky and Hutch.” Playing the part of Kenneth “Hutch” Hutchinson, Soul spellbound crowds with his light hair and blue-eyed charm across every one of the 92 episodes of the series.

Along with Paul Michael Glaser, the pair became famous, with their red-and-white Ford Gran Torino turning into an image of 1970s pop culture.

Lined up with his TV achievement, Soul’s melodic gifts sparkled splendidly. Hits like “Don’t Give Up on Us” and “Silver Lady” displayed his adaptability, with the previous topping charts in different nations, including the U.S. and, furthermore, the U.K.

What happened to David Soul?

David Soul, passed away at 80 after a valiant battle for life, according to his wife, Helen Snell. The news declared through his official site and social media channels, revealed that Soul spent his last minutes surrounded by his caring family.

Tributes poured in, praising his complex talents and the permanent imprint he left on the entertainment world.

A Legacy Remembered

Past his roles in TV and music, David Soul’s journey was one of enthusiasm, commitment, and adaptability. From his initial days singing in Mexico to gracing the screens of millions around the world, his effect on the entertainment industry is certain.

As the world grieves his passing, Soul’s legacy as a talented entertainer, vocalist, and narrator will without a doubt live on, helping us to remember the brilliant time of TV and music that he so flawlessly typified.