Mike Yarwood, the comedian and impersonator who was one of the most popular entertainers in Britain in the 1970s and 1980s, has died at the age of 82.
Yarwood, who was born in Manchester in 1937, began his career as a stand-up comedian in the early 1960s. He quickly became known for his impersonations of politicians, celebrities, and other public figures.
His most famous impersonations included Harold Wilson, Margaret Thatcher, and Ronnie Corbett. He also created a number of original characters, including the hapless civil servant Terry Thomas and the flamboyant businessman Albert Steptoe.
Yarwood’s sketches were often satirical and witty, and he was known for his ability to capture the essence of his subjects with just a few well-chosen words and phrases. He was also a gifted mimic, and his impersonations were often uncanny.
Yarwood’s popularity peaked in the 1970s and 1980s, when he starred in a number of successful television shows, including “The Mike Yarwood Show” and “Weekend World.” He also appeared in a number of films, including “The Rise and Fall of Reginald Perrin” and “The Maggie.”
Yarwood’s career declined in the 1990s, but he continued to perform until his retirement in 2002. He was awarded the OBE in 1981 and the CBE in 2004.
Yarwood’s death has been met with sadness and tributes from many of his colleagues and friends. Comedian Ronnie Corbett said Yarwood was “one of the greatest comedians of all time” and that he was “a true legend.”
Yarwood is survived by his wife, Sheila, and their two daughters.
Yarwood’s legacy
Mike Yarwood was a hugely popular and influential comedian who left an indelible mark on British popular culture. His impersonations were often hilarious and insightful, and he was able to capture the essence of his subjects with just a few well-chosen words and phrases.
Yarwood’s legacy is a reminder of the power of comedy to entertain and inform. He was a master of his craft, and his work continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages.