Bobby Knutt’s Legacy

Bobby Knutt, beloved actor from Benidorm and Emmerdale, has posthumously stirred headlines. The Sheffield-born comedian and actor passed away in 2017 at the age of 71 while on holiday in the South of France.

Known affectionately as “Knutty,” Bobby had a career spanning decades, including his roles as Eddie Dawson in Benidorm and Albert Dingle in Emmerdale. He also appeared in Coronation Street as garage boss Ron Sykes and lent his voice to numerous TV adverts, most famously for Tetley tea.

Controversial Will

According to reports, Bobby’s £350,000 estate largely bypassed his children. The actor, who was married four times, had four children with his first wife. Two of them received nothing, while the other two were left £5,000 each.

Instead, Bobby left two-thirds of his estate to his sister, Tina Martin. The remaining portion went to his closest friends, Michael and Patricia Ward. The will also instructed the trio to sell his South Yorkshire home, including its contents and cars, to make a profit.

Additionally, Bobby’s collection of ceramic Tetley characters was bequeathed to Tina, while his £6,000 Omega Seamaster watch went to his solicitor.

A Life in the Spotlight

Bobby’s funeral reflected his larger-than-life personality. Held at Holy Trinity Church in Wentworth, South Yorkshire, the service was packed with friends, family, and fans of his work. Among those attending were John Challis, known for Only Fools and Horses, and musician Richard Hawley, alongside many of Bobby’s Benidorm co-stars.

True to form, Bobby had prepared a video tribute to his life and career, which was shown at the service. Friends and family shared funny stories from his early days on the South Yorkshire club circuit, and his philosophy of “start off at 100mph and get faster” resonated with attendees.

Mourners were treated to images of his most iconic roles, from Emmerdale to the stage, and his coffin was carried out to the 1974 songs “You’re My Day, You’re My Night” and “Did I Hear You Say Goodbye?” Floral tributes read “Dad” and “Knutty,” honoring his nickname and family ties.

Personal Life and Tragedy

Bobby’s personal life was marked by both joy and heartbreak. His fourth wife, Donna Hartley, a celebrated British athlete who won gold at the 1980 Olympics, tragically died in 2013 while sunbathing in their Barnsley garden. Despite personal tragedies, Bobby continued to charm audiences with his humor, talent, and generosity on stage and screen.

Remembering Knutty

Bobby Knutt’s will has sparked debate about family and legacy, but his career and personality remain celebrated. Fans remember him for his infectious humor, dedication to acting, and ability to light up any role he played.

Despite the controversy surrounding his estate, Bobby Knutt’s impact on British television and comedy endures. His performances in Benidorm, Emmerdale, and on stage continue to entertain new generations of fans, proving that his legacy will live on well beyond financial matters.