One of the West End’s best-known and most prolific producers, Bill Kenwright, has been diagnosed with cancer, and had a cancerous tumour removed.
The news was put out by Everton Football Club, where Bill Kenwright has been Chairman since 2004.
Bill Kenwright is one of the UK’s most successful theatre producers. His production of Blood Brothers ran in the West End for over 24 years, and his scores of other productions have included a long association with Andrew Lloyd Webber, producing Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Whistle Down the Wind, Jesus Christ Superstar, Tell Me on a Sunday, The Wizard of Oz and Evita.
He remains an active theatre producer through his Bill Kenwright Ltd production outfit. Current shows include Frank and Percy at The Other Palace theatre in Victoria – a venue which he owns – starring Ian McKellen and Roger Allam; and UK tours of Calendar Girls The Musical, which is also coming to London’s New Wimbledon Theatre on 31 October; Twelve Angry Men starring Patrick Duffy; and hit West End musical Blood Brothers – which is rumoured to be on its way back to the West End.
In recent years Kenwright has also become an active film producer through his BK Studios company, led by David Gilbery. Current movie projects include The Critic, starring Ian Mckellen, Gemma Arterton, Mark Strong and Lesley Manville, directed by Anand Tucker. The film had its premiere recently at the Toronto International Film Festival – read a round-up of reviews for The Critic.
Alongside The Other Palace, Kenwright also owns the Theatre Royal Windsor.
We wish Mr Kenwright a speedy recovery.
Everton’s full statement about Bill Kenwright
12 October 2023: Everton would like to provide a short update on the health of our Chairman, Bill Kenwright. Following a diagnosis at the beginning of August, Mr Kenwright underwent a major medical procedure six weeks ago to remove a cancerous tumour from his liver. The procedure was completely successful, but complications during surgery necessitated a prolonged period in an intensive care unit. Mr Kenwright is now out of intensive care and has left hospital. He has returned home to continue his recovery which is expected to be lengthy, but complete. Right up until the day of the procedure the Chairman had continued to carry out all his club duties, working hard alongside Mr Moshiri to facilitate the proposed takeover by 777 Partners and supporting Kevin Thelwell with the Club’s summer transfer activity. Mr Kenwright has always been fiercely protective of his private life and is grateful that his privacy has been respected during this difficult time. He hopes this will continue following this update.
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