Kenneth Cope, the esteemed British actor and writer best known for his role in the detective TV series Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased), has passed away at the age of 93. According to a statement from his agent, Cope “passed away peacefully in his sleep” on Wednesday, surrounded by his wife and family.
In Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased), which originally aired in 1969 and 1970, Cope portrayed Marty Hopkirk, a character who is murdered but returns as a ghost. The series gained a cult following and was later remade in 2000 by Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer.
Cope’s extensive career also included a notable role as Jed Stone in Coronation Street, where he appeared in over 100 episodes during the 1960s and made brief returns in 2008 and 2009. Additionally, Cope was part of the Carry On film series, featuring in Carry On at Your Convenience (1971) and Carry On Matron (1972).
The agent’s statement described Cope as a “natural comedy actor” and highlighted his deep roots as a “proud native Liverpudlian” and a devoted supporter of Everton Football Club. The statement concluded: “We are deeply saddened by his passing and ask that his family are given privacy at this time. He is survived by his loving wife Renny Lister and his children Nick, Mark, and Martha.”
Cope’s career spanned theatre, film, and television, with credits including Brookside, That Was The Week That Was, Doctors, The Bill, Truckers, and Last of the Summer Wine. His portrayal of Ray Hilton in Brookside was well received, with Cope appearing in 171 episodes from 1999 to 2002.
Michael Starke, who worked with Cope on Brookside, remembered him as a “proper gentleman,” noting, “We had a few scenes together, and I remember he was a sweet man. He never had a cross word for anyone and was always really generous. I liked him a lot.”
ITV, where Cope’s portrayal of Jed Stone made him a beloved figure, also paid tribute, stating: “Kenneth’s portrayal of Jed Stone, also known as Sonny Jim, on Coronation Street between 1961 and 1966 made him a firm favorite with the soap’s fans. He was a talented actor and writer and we were delighted when he agreed to reprise the role 42 years later in 2008. We are sorry to hear of his passing and our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
