Comedian and impersonator Mike Yarwood has died aged 82, the Royal Variety Charity has said.
He became a household name in the 1960s and 1970s, attracting huge TV audiences for his impersonations of politicians and other public figures.
“The Mike Yarwood Show (1977) holds the record for the largest single Christmas Day audience of 21.4 million viewers,” the charity said in a statement.
He spent his “latter years” at the charity’s care home, Brinsworth House in Twickenham, southwest London,
“He leaves behind an immeasurable void in the entertainment industry,” the organisation said.
“Mike’s family have asked that their privacy be respected during this sad and difficult time.”
Mike Yarwood with former prime minister Sir Harold Wilson in 1977
The charity said Yarwood “quickly rose to prominence for his exceptional ability to mimic the voices and mannerisms of countless celebrities and public figures”.
“His talent for impersonation brought smiles to the faces of millions and his unique ability to capture the essence of his subjects made him an icon in the comedy world.”
Mike Yarwood with Cilla Black and Faith Brown in 1996
