CORRIE star Kenneth Cope, who met his beloved wife Renny Lister on the set of the iconic soap, has died aged 93.
Their love story came to light as news emerged of his tragic passing, with Renny, his wife of 63 years, and their family by his side.
Cope met the love of his life, actress Renny Lister, while filming on the set of the iconic soap opera, sparking a love story that spanned more than six decades and even carried over to the next generation.
The pair’s paths first crossed in 1961 when Cope was cast as the cheeky street trader Jed Stone, while Renny Lister played the role of Jean Stark.
It was during this time on the cobbles that Cope and Lister’s on-screen chemistry blossomed into a real-life romance.
What began as an innocent meeting on the set of Britain’s favourite soap soon turned into a lifetime commitment, with the couple marrying in 1961.
Their shared love of acting and vibrant personalities made them a perfect match, and they became inseparable both on and off-screen.
Renny Lister continued to support her husband’s career while maintaining her own presence in the entertainment world.
Kenneth Cope’s life was not only marked by his achievements in front of the camera but also by the strong and enduring bond he shared with his wife, Renny.
Their relationship began in the make-believe world of Weatherfield but proved to be a very real love story that lasted over 63 years.
The couple’s shared history on Coronation Street became a unique and heart-warming chapter in the show’s storied past.
The couple’s connection to Coronation Street didn’t end with their own appearances.
Years later, their daughter Martha Cope would also step onto the famous cobblestones.
In December 2015 and January 2016, Martha appeared on the show as Joanne, a woman who briefly dated Kevin Webster.
Her stint on the soap added another chapter to the family’s deep-rooted association with Coronation Street, carrying forward the legacy started by her parents decades earlier.
His family, including actress daughter Martha Cope, and sons Nick and Mark, were also there to bid farewell.
A statement from Kenneth’s family read: “It is with great sadness the family wish to announce the passing of Kenneth Cope 14/04/1931 – 11/09/2024.
“Ken passed away yesterday peacefully in his sleep with his wife and family by his side.
“An incredible icon of British TV and film known famously for his role as Marty Hopkirk in Randall and Hopkirk, Jed Stone in Coronation Street as well as part of the Carry On team.
“His career spans six decades and contributed to some of the most iconic moments in British culture. Ken was a proud native Liverpudlian and a loyal supporter of Everton Football Club.
“He began his career in theatre quickly picking up many film and TV roles. He was a natural comedy actor and was a main contributor to the comedy series That Was The Week That Was and swiftly became a regular figure across the acting industry.
“We are deeply saddened by his passing and ask that his family are given privacy at this time. He is survived by his loving wife Renny Lister and his children Nick, Mark and Martha.”
Kenneth Cope’s passing marks the end of an era, but his love story with Renny Lister will forever be remembered by fans of Coronation Street.
