Mike Yarwood Funeral: Burial, Obituary, Dates, Location

Mike Yarwood Funeral: Burial, Obituary, Dates, Location – Michael Edward Yarwood was an accomplished English impressionist, comedian and actor born on June 14, 1941 in Bred bury, Cheshire and died at aged 82 on September 9, 2023.

When is Mike Yarwood Funeral?

The burial service, memorial, gravesite as well as time and date for Mike Yarwood funeral is yet to be determine.

The family is yet to even announce and disclose the location where the celebrated comedian will be laid in the state.

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Mike Yarwood Obituary

Since the family is yet to disclose the cause of death of Mike Yarwood, his official obituary isn’t available however, Royal Variety Charity announced it and said “ it was deeply saddened to announce his death, adding: “He leaves behind an immeasurable void in the entertainment industry.”

It continued: “Mike 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.

The charity added: “Throughout his career, Mike graced television screens nationwide, becoming a household name in the 1960s and 1970s.

“His variety shows, including The Mike Yarwood Show, and Mike Yarwood In Persons, captivated audiences and showcased his uncanny talent for mimicry on prime-time television for two decades.

“The Mike Yarwood Show (1977) holds the record for the largest single Christmas Day audience of 21.4 million viewers.

“Mike’s family have asked that their privacy be respected during this sad and difficult time.”

Mike Yarwood Career

He gained popularity as one of Britain’s leading entertainers, making frequent appearances on television during the 1960s through the 1980s.

Yarwood’s early years involved work as a messenger and a salesman at a clothing warehouse after leaving secondary school. Although he enjoyed playing football as a child, he didn’t pursue a professional sports career. He also served as a director for the Stockport County football club at one point.

His television career began in the 1960s and continued through the 1970s. He initially worked for ATV, an ITV franchise holder, before moving to Thames Television after his stint with the BBC.

Yarwood’s breakthrough came when he appeared on “Sunday Night at the London Palladium” in 1964, coinciding with the political rise of Labour Party leader and Prime Minister Harold Wilson, whom Yarwood famously impersonated.

During the 1970s, Yarwood reached the pinnacle of his career while working under the BBC’s light entertainment impresario, Bill Cotton.

He joined a roster of stars that included Bruce Forsyth, Dick Emery, Morecambe and Wise, Val Doonican, and the Two Ronnies.

Yarwood’s BBC shows consistently drew large audiences, featuring a mix of comic sketches, musical guests, and a signature closing song performed by Yarwood himself.

In 1977, “The Mike Yarwood Christmas Show” on BBC 1 was watched by a staggering 21.4 million viewers, making it the highest-rated British television program of that year.

Yarwood’s impersonations and catchphrases left a lasting mark on British culture, with his portrayal of Harold Wilson being particularly memorable. He even briefly included Prince Charles in his repertoire.

Later in his career, Yarwood transitioned to Thames TV in 1982, but his success there was mixed, unlike some of his contemporaries who continued to thrive. While Forsyth bounced back with “Play Your Cards Right,” Yarwood faced challenges.

Yarwood’s unique performances often involved him portraying multiple characters simultaneously through color-separation overlay and video editing. Some of his caricatures gave rise to catchphrases associated with the real-life figures he portrayed.

In 1978, Yarwood was honored with a “This Is Your Life” special, and a documentary titled “Mike Yarwood: This is His Life” followed six years later, featuring insights from Bruce Forsyth, David Frost, and Harold Wilson.

His Thames TV show concluded in 1987, leading Yarwood to focus on stage work. Attempts to revive his television career in the following years were unsuccessful, although he did make an appearance on “Have I Got News for You” in November 1995.

In the mid-1990s, Yarwood had the opportunity to impersonate Prime Minister John Major on stage, but he struggled to reestablish himself before Major’s premiership ended.

He noted that it was challenging to impersonate John Major and Tony Blair because they were perceived as “nice guys.”

In 2003, Yarwood made a rare public appearance at the Albany comedy club in London, hosted by Bob Monkhouse. This event, intended for a TV documentary, eventually aired in December 2016 as a one-off special for BBC Four.

In 2021, Yarwood’s Christmas shows were licensed by That’s TV, providing a nostalgic holiday offering alongside other classic programs not seen on British television for over two decades.

Mike Yarwood Cause of death

His death was a natural cause despite battling heart problem over the years.

According to statement released by the Royal Variety Charity, Mike Yarwood passed away in his home at Brinsworth House on Friday, September 8, 2023.

Mike Yarwood Family & Person Details