Ken Kitson, the veteran actor celebrated for his roles in Coronation Street and Last of the Summer Wine, has disclosed that seven years of ongoing health struggles have prevented him from acting and forced him to rely on benefits. The 80-year-old star shared the update in a heartfelt Facebook post, addressing fans who have repeatedly asked about his return to television.
Health Struggles and Benefits
In his post, Kitson wrote: 'Hi Folks, I'm asked on a regular basis over the past few years if and when I will be back on your screens. All I can say is for the last seven years I've been going through many setbacks with illness. Because of this, I'm on Benefits, plus I no longer have an Agent/Manager to represent me.' He added that despite missing work 'like crazy,' he cannot foresee returning to the camera at his age, except for a documentary about Last of the Summer Wine airing at Christmas or New Year.
Kitson expressed regret over the negative update, noting he has been on television for 54 years and enjoyed every moment, but concluded: 'It looks doubtful I'll work again. So enjoy the regular repeats of my work.'
A Storied Career
Before acting, Kitson worked as a printer and trained at East 15 Acting School. He made his screen debut in 1972 as a fight arranger in The Adventures of Barry McKenzie. Over his career, he played four roles on Coronation Street: Jim Hinton in 1977, Phil Morris in 1982, Marty Kelly in 2001, and Mr Walker in 2005. He also appeared in Emmerdale, Casualty, and Heartbeat, and featured in 35 episodes of The Ruth Rendell Mysteries.
His most iconic role was Sergeant Cooper in the BBC sitcom Last of the Summer Wine, appearing in 88 episodes from December 1983 to April 2010. He reprised the character in the 2014 pilot Cooper and Walsh, which was not picked up as a series.
Fan Support
Fans flooded his post with support. One wrote: 'Wishing you comfort, peace, and all the quiet happiness you deserve. You are remembered, appreciated, and loved by so many.' Another commented: 'After 54 years of lighting up our screens… you’ve more than earned the right to rest.' A third fan said: 'You are one of the very best things about Summer Wine. You've brought hours of belly laughs.'
Kitson's update highlights the personal toll of prolonged illness on a beloved actor who remains grateful for his legacy.
