Bill Kenwright, Everton chairman and famed West End theatrical and film producer, died at the age of 78.
Eight weeks ago, Kenwright underwent surgery to remove a malignant tumor from his liver.
He had been on the board of directors at Everton since 1989, becoming chairman in 2004.
The Liverpudlian was also a famous theatrical producer and played Gordon Clegg in Coronation Street from 1968 until 2012.
In the 2001 New Year’s Honours List, Kenwright was granted a CBE for his contributions to film and theater.
Everton declared itself “in mourning” after the death of the club’s longest-serving chairman in almost a century.
“The club has lost a chairman, a leader, a friend, and an inspiration,” Everton said in a statement.
The Premier League team announced on October 12 that Kenwright had a malignant tumor removed from his liver six weeks prior.
The operation was “completely successful,” according to Everton, although complications meant Kenwright needed a “prolonged period in an intensive care unit.”
Kenwright’s family announced his death on Tuesday, saying he “passed away peacefully” on Monday night “surrounded by his family and loved ones.”
“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,” according to a statement from his family.
“He impacted the lives of thousands, whether that be through the launching of careers or his unending loyalty, generosity and unfaltering friendship and support.”
Kenwright created almost 500 West End, Broadway, UK touring, and worldwide theatre shows, films, and music records over a six-decade career.
“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,” he said.
