The Daily Observer London Desk: Reporter- Judith Benjamin
Liverpool are among the clubs to pay tribute to the former Everton chairman and and legendary theatre producer Bill Kenwright who has died at the age of 78.
Kenwright spent a prolonged period in intensive care after undergoing surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from his liver last summer before returning home two weeks ago.
He enjoyed an illustrious career in the theatre and was perhaps best known for the long-running West End hit Blood Brothers, which ran for 24 years in the West End.
But it’s his long association and dedication to the blue half of Merseyside that made Kenwright a well known figure to most.
Everton released a statement saying it was in ‘mourning’ following the death of the man who had been on the board since 1989, while their cross-town rivals sent a heartfelt message of condolence.
Tributes have poured in from across the footballing world for former Everton chairman Bill Kenwright following his death at the age of 78
Liverpool Football Club and Anfield legend Jamie Carragher shared their sadness at the news
‘Rest in peace, Bill Kenwright.’ The Reds wrote on X, formerly Twitter. ‘The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool FC are with Bill’s family, friends and everyone at Everton.’
Anfield legend and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher also shared his sadness at the news, saying: ‘Really sad news this.
‘A huge Evertonian who served & loved his club to bits. I’ll never forget his & Everton’s support every year around the Hillsborough memorial. RIP Bill.
Kenwright forged a love affair with the Toffees from an early age, inspired by his idol, the centre forward Dave Hickson. After taking a place on the board in 1989 he was made deputy chairman after buying a 68 per cent majority share of the club from Peter Johnson in 1999.
He succeeded Sir Phillip Carter as Everton chairman in 2004. A year later the Toffees secured a place in the Champions League qualifiers under the guidance of manager David Moyes.
He was persuaded to stay on in the role earlier this year by Farhad Moshiri, who Kenwright sold his stake to in 2016.
Bill Kenwright was a lifelong Evertonian and had been on the club’s board since 1989
The EFL were among those sending their condolences. He is survived by his parter Jenny Seagrove, one daughter from a previous relationship with stage and screen star Virginia Stride, as well as two grandchildren.
‘The EFL is saddened to hear of the passing of Bill Kenwright CBE.’ The statement read. ‘Our collective thoughts are with Bill’s family and friends, as well as everyone at Everton.’
Similar tributes were shared by former Everton midfielder Peter Reid and ex-Toffees academy player and Bristol Rovers boss Joey Barton.
