![](\"https:\/\/metro.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/SEC_170748407-c61b.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Comedian and impersonator Mike Yarwood has died aged 82, the Royal Variety Charity has announced.<\/p>\n
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, the organisation shared a picture of Yarwood meeting the late Queen Elizabeth II while writing: \u2018We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of the legendary comedian and impersonator, #MikeYarwood, OBE. <\/p>\n
\u2018Mike leaves behind an immeasurable void in the entertainment industry. We send our deepest condolences to Mike\u2019s family, his many friends and fans. RIP \ud83d\ude4f.\u2019<\/p>\n
Tributes immediately came for the late performer on social media, with Piers Morgan writing: \u2018Sad news. Massive TV star when I was growing up, and such a gifted comedian & impressionist. RIP Mike, and thanks for all the laughs.\u2019<\/p>\n
The operations manager at the Royal Variety Peter Hinton added: \u2018I shall sorely miss Mike. Our brilliant chats and our proper belly laughs. <\/p>\n
\u2018There was no one like him before, and none like him left. A real gentle man and a truly unique, one of a kind. Rest in Peace.\u2019<\/p>\n
![](\"https:\/\/metro.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/metro-parent\/img\/fallback.png\")
<\/p>\n
Former EastEnders actor Stuart Antony said: \u2018Saddened to hear that the legend Mike Yarwood has passed away. His impressions were beyond perfection\u2026 but he was just the nicest man with a wealth of stories \u2013 RIP Mike Yarwood.\u2019<\/p>\n
Born on June 14 1941 in Bredbury, Cheshire, Yarwood became a household name in the 1960s and 1970s with his impressions of people including high-profile politicians and celebrities.<\/p>\n
Speaking of Yarwood\u2019s legacy, the Royal Variety Charity stated: \u2018Mike Yarwood quickly rose to prominence for his exceptional ability to mimic the voices and mannerisms of countless celebrities and public figures.<\/p>\n
\u2018His 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.\u2019<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
One of Yarwood\u2019s trademark impersonations was of Labour leader and Prime Minister Harold Wilson, who was in power at No 10 Downing Street from 1964 until 1970, and then for a second term from 1974 to 1976.<\/p>\n
He also imitated then-Prince Charles, sparking controversy for his portrayal of the royal figure.<\/p>\n
The comedian starred in several TV shows which featured himself as the titular personality, including Will the Real Mike Yarwood Stand Up?, Look: Mike Yarwood, Mike Yarwood in Persons and The Mike Yarwood Show.<\/p>\n
The Royal Variety Charity said: \u2018The Mike Yarwood Show (1977) holds the record for the largest single Christmas Day audience of 21.4 million viewers.<\/p>\n
\u2018Mike\u2019s family have asked that their privacy be respected during this sad and difficult time.\u2019<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Yarwood died in hospital on Friday September 8.<\/p>\n
He spent the later years of his life at the Royal Variety Charity\u2019s Brinsworth House, a residential and nursing retirement home for theatre and entertainment professionals in Twickenham, south-west London.<\/p>\n
The impersonator had two daughters with his ex-wife, dancer Sandra Burville.<\/p>\n