The late chairman of Everton Football Club, Bill Kenwright, left an impressive £36 million estate to his family and selected charitable causes, according to recently revealed probate documents.
A Life in Theatre and Football
Bill Kenwright passed away in October 2023 at age 78 following complications from surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from his liver. The legendary theatre producer, who had been in a relationship with actress Jenny Seagrove since 1994, died surrounded by his family and loved ones.
His extensive estate has been placed into a trust for his surviving family, which includes his daughter Lucy and two grandchildren. The will, drawn up just two months before his death, also made specific provisions for charitable donations that reflected his lifelong passions.
Charitable Bequests and Personal Legacies
Everton In The Community, a charity supporting local residents, is set to receive a significant donation from Kenwright's estate. Another beneficiary is the Mane Chance Sanctuary, an organisation dedicated to rescuing abandoned horses.
In a particularly personal gesture, Kenwright left his £4.5 million home in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire to his long-term partner Jenny Seagrove, 68. This bequest underscores the depth of their relationship spanning nearly three decades.
An Enduring Legacy Across Two Industries
Kenwright's remarkable career spanned both the arts and football worlds. He produced over 500 West End, Broadway and international theatre productions during his six-decade career, including legendary shows like Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Evita.
His connection to Everton began in childhood, inspired by his idol, centre forward Dave Hickson. He joined Everton's board in 1989 and became deputy chairman after purchasing a 68% majority share from Peter Johnson in 1999. He served as chairman from 2004 until his death, navigating the club through significant changes in English football.
Despite health challenges that included a chronic illness diagnosed in 2015, Kenwright continued his club duties until his surgery in August 2023. He was awarded a CBE for services to film and theatre in 2001, cementing his status as one of Britain's most influential cultural figures.
The probate revelation confirms that Kenwright's legacy will continue through both his family and the charitable causes he supported throughout his extraordinary life.
