The entertainment world has been rocked by the revelation that beloved actor Bobby Knutt, famous for his roles in Benidorm and Emmerdale, made the extraordinary decision to cut his three children entirely from his will.
Knutt, who passed away in September 2020 at the age of 71, left his entire estate - valued at approximately £500,000 - solely to his wife of 25 years, actress Sandra Knutt. Official probate records confirm that his daughter and two sons from previous relationships received absolutely nothing from their father's estate.
A Family Divided
The actor's final wishes have created a deep rift within the family, with sources close to the children describing them as "devastated and bewildered" by their father's decision. Knutt, who played rocker Bobby in the hit ITV comedy Benidorm and was a regular on Emmerdale as Terry Woods, had maintained relationships with all his children throughout his life.
His daughter, a 47-year-old teaching assistant, and two sons, aged 42 and 44, were said to be particularly shocked as they believed they had a strong relationship with their father. The exclusion appears deliberate and absolute, with no provision made for any of them in the legal documents.
A Career Remembered
Bobby Knutt enjoyed a successful television career spanning decades, becoming a household name through his various roles. His portrayal of the leather-clad rocker in Benidorm made him a fan favourite, while his long-running role in Emmerdale cemented his status as a respected British actor.
Beyond his acting career, Knutt was also known for his work as a professional wrestler in his younger years and later as a successful comedian on the working men's club circuit. His diverse talents and warm personality made him one of Yorkshire's most beloved entertainment figures.
The Legacy Left Behind
The substantial estate includes property, savings, and investments accumulated over Knutt's lengthy career in show business. Under English law, adults have the right to disinherit their children in their wills, though such decisions often lead to family disputes and legal challenges.
Estate experts note that while legally sound, such exclusions can sometimes be contested if children can prove they were financially dependent on the deceased or if there's evidence the will was made under undue influence or without proper mental capacity.
Friends of the actor have expressed surprise at the decision, describing Knutt as a family man who adored his children. The reasons behind his final wishes remain private, leaving many questions unanswered about this dramatic postscript to the actor's life.
