The United Kingdom’s theaters were illuminated in blue light in honor of the late impresario Bill Kenwright. Kenwright, a leading theater producer and mentor in the industry, was remembered with this gesture. Liverpool, his hometown, and other cities, including Darlington, London, Blackpool, Brighton, and Sheffield, participated to honor. Bill Kenwright passed away at the age of 78. He was also known for his involvement with Everton Football Club, where he served as chairman for over two decades.
The club, Everton Football Club, expressed its condolences on X, stating that Kenwright had “passed away peacefully last night aged 78, surrounded by his family and loved ones.” The statement noted his significant role as chairman. Another statement from Bill Kenwright Limited described him as a “beloved partner, father, grandfather, and friend.”
Bill Kenwright was a highly successful theater producer in the UK, with notable credits including Blood Brothers, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Cabaret. He was instrumental in launching the careers of many current West End producers and consistently achieved successes with productions like The Wizard of Oz, Jekyll & Hyde, and Evita. In addition to theater, he also produced several films throughout his career.
Born in Liverpool, Kenwright initially pursued acting and appeared in ITV’s Coronation Street as Gordon Clegg before transitioning to producing. He was deeply involved in Everton Football Club and even had his own record label, Bill Kenwright Records. He is survived by his partner, actress Jenny Seagrove, and his daughter, TV producer Lucy Kenwright.
