David Soul, the iconic actor who captured the hearts of millions as the suave detective in the hit TV series “Starsky & Hutch,” has passed away at the age of 80.
David Soul legacy extends beyond the streets he patrolled on screen; Soul was a man of many talents, including a successful singing career that soared to the top of the charts with his 1977 hit “Don’t Give Up on Us.” His life was a tapestry of artistry and activism, from laying scrap metal on the altar of Shadyside Presbyterian Church in protest of steel-industry layoffs to championing social causes with passion and dedication.
David Soul Biogrphy
David Soul, born David Richard Solberg on August 28, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, is a man of diverse talents and a career that spans over five decades. He is renowned for his roles as an actor, director, producer, and singer/songwriter, as well as for his work as a concert performer and social activist.
David Soul has been married five times and is a proud father of six children. His current wife is Helen Snell, whom he married in June 2010 after being in a serious relationship since 2002. Together, they have faced many challenges, including Soul’s health issues, with Helen providing unwavering support throughout.
David Soul’s children are from his previous marriages. He has five sons and a daughter: China Soul, Christopher Soul, Brendan Soul, Tyler Soul, and Jon Soul. His family reflects the personal side of a man who has lived a life in the spotlight, balancing his public persona with his role as a father and husband.
Soul’s early life was marked by a unique blend of experiences, from the prairies of South Dakota to the divided city of post-WWII Berlin. His father, Dr. Richard Solberg, was a professor of History and Political Science and an ordained minister who served as Religious Affairs Advisor to the U.S. High Commission in Berlin. This position allowed the family to witness firsthand the challenges of the Cold War era.
In his youth, David Soul was deeply involved in politics, supporting the South Dakota Young Democrats and the campaign to elect John F. Kennedy as President. Although he was offered a professional baseball contract with the Chicago White Sox, he chose to pursue a different path, accompanying his family to Mexico City where his father had accepted a professorship. Inspired by his father’s work and President Kennedy’s call to service, Soul aspired to join the diplomatic service.
However, his journey took a turn towards the arts. Soul’s acting career began with small roles in television series such as “Flipper,” “I Dream of Jeannie,” and “Star Trek.” His breakthrough came with his role as Detective Kenneth ‘Hutch’ Hutchinson in the action crime series “Starsky and Hutch.” Alongside his acting career, he also enjoyed success as a singer with hit singles like “Silver Lady” and “Don’t Give Up on Us Baby”.
Throughout his life, Soul has been a champion of social causes, often using his own funds to raise awareness on issues such as the impact of the Vietnam War, the shutdowns in the US steel industry, animal welfare, world hunger, and HIV education. He has made his home in the United Kingdom for several years, where he has continued to engage in theater productions and support social causes.
David Soul career
David Soul’s career is a remarkable journey through the entertainment industry, marked by his versatility as an actor, director, producer, singer/songwriter, and concert performer. His career spans over 50 years, showcasing his talents in various artistic endeavors.
Acting Career: Soul’s acting career began with small roles in television series such as “Flipper,” “I Dream of Jeannie,” and “Star Trek.” However, he gained widespread recognition for his role as Detective Kenneth ‘Hutch’ Hutchinson in the action crime series “Starsky & Hutch.” This role cemented his status as a television icon.
Music Career: Parallel to his acting, Soul also enjoyed a successful music career. He released several singles that topped the charts, including “Silver Lady” and “Don’t Give Up on Us Baby.” His musical talents extended to concert performances, where he captivated audiences with his voice.
Directorial Work: Soul has also directed episodes of “Starsky & Hutch” and “In the Heat of the Night,” showcasing his skills behind the camera. His directorial work received praise, particularly for episodes like “Survival” from “Starsky & Hutch”.
Stage Performances: In addition to his screen roles, Soul has performed on stage, further demonstrating his range as an actor. His stage work includes a dozen-plus performances, adding to his extensive list of acting roles.
Social Activism: Throughout his career, Soul has been an active social activist, using his platform to raise awareness for various causes. He has been involved in projects addressing issues such as the Vietnam War, the US steel industry, animal welfare, world hunger, and HIV education.
His career reflects his dedication to the arts and his commitment to making a positive impact on society through his work and activism
David Soul social activism
David Soul’s involvement in social activism can be traced back to his formative years, which were deeply influenced by his father’s work and the political climate of the time. Growing up in post-WWII Berlin, where his father served as Religious Affairs Advisor to the U.S. High Commission and later as Senior Representative for the Lutheran World Federation, David witnessed the impact of the Cold War and the refugee crisis firsthand. This exposure to global issues and his father’s dedication to helping those in need undoubtedly shaped his worldview.
In 1959, David became actively involved with the South Dakota Young Democrats and participated in the campaign to elect John F. Kennedy as President. His early political engagement and Kennedy’s call to service inspired him to consider a career in the diplomatic service.
Throughout his career, David Soul has used his platform to raise awareness and support various social causes. He has been known to fund projects that address issues such as the Vietnam War, the shutdowns in the US steel industry, animal welfare, world hunger, and HIV education. His commitment to activism is also reflected in his not-for-profit film “America,” which illustrates the country’s history and supports the Black Lives Matter movement.
David Soul’s passion for music and acting provided him with opportunities to reach a wider audience and advocate for change. His brother, a Lutheran minister and social activist, also influenced him, and together they worked with union activists and unemployed steelworkers in western Pennsylvania. Soul’s dedication to social activism is a testament to his belief in using one’s talents and influence to make a positive impact on society.
As we bid farewell to this beloved star, we remember not just the roles he played, but the indelible mark he left on the world. David Soul, a true renaissance man, whose spirit will continue to inspire long after the final curtain call. Rest in peace, detective; your mission is complete.