Iconic Entertainer and Master of Mimicry
Sadly, at the age of 82, famed comic and impersonator Mike Yarwood passed away. The adored performer, who rose to stardom in the 1960s and 1970s, had a lasting impression on the entertainment world with his extraordinary impersonation skills.
Mike Yarwood, a fantastic entertainer and lifelong follower of Stockport County Football Club, was born on June 4, 1941, in Bredbury, Cheshire.
Yarwood spent his last years in the Brinsworth House care facility, which is run by the Royal Variety Charity. In announcing his passing, the charity recognized the “immeasurable void” that his passing would leave and honored the family’s wish for privacy during this trying time.
For many years to come, audiences will continue to smile thanks to the pioneering impressionist and adored entertainer that was Mike Yarwood.
A Legacy of Laughter
Mike Yarwood was a household name for the duration of his brilliant career and became closely associated with prime-time television in the 1960s and 1970s. For two decades, his variety programs, such as “The Mike Yarwood Show” and “Mike Yarwood In Persons,” highlighted his amazing imitation ability and pleased audiences.
Tim Davie, director general of the BBC, hailed Mike Yarwood as
“simply one of the greats”
and praised his legendary impersonations of public figures such as Harold Wilson and Frank Spencer, saying they were always
“pin sharp, warm, and funny.”
Fond Tributes Pour In
Fellow comedians and impressionists gave Mike Yarwood emotional tributes after hearing the tragic news of his departure. Yarwood was regarded as the “Godfather of impressions on TV.”
In an online eulogy, Jon Culshaw expressed his sympathy and emphasized Yarwood’s groundbreaking use of many cameras and split screens to bring his characters to life. Rory Bremner, who was equally shocked, recognized Yarwood’s contribution to the advancement of impressionists and referred to him as the “Gov’nor” of the “golden age” of television.
Yarwood was hailed by Gyles Brandreth as a “genius among impressionists” and complimented for his kind-hearted and non-cruel approach to impersonations.
