The True Story Behind Benny Hill's Death: A Misunderstood British Legend
The claim that Benny Hill, the legendary British comedian, died due to harassment from alternative comedians in the 1980s and 1990s is completely false. In reality, his death on April 20, 1992, was the result of several health-related issues and personal challenges. This article aims to clear up misconceptions and provide a true account of one of Britain's most beloved entertainers.
Myth or Fact: Benny Hill's Death
There have been persistent rumors suggesting that alternative comedians harassed Benny Hill, leading to his untimely death. However, thorough investigation and official reports confirm that this is not the case. Hill passed away due to heart failure, a condition that was exacerbated by his poor health and limited social life after being fired from Thames TV.
The Reality: A Predictable Tragedy
No, it was not harassment. It wasn't even a murder. The truth is a more mundane but tragic story. At the age of 68, Benny Hill was overweight, weighed more than he should, and had underlying health problems. His death was predictable given his lifestyle and health conditions.
Tragic Circumstances
When Benny Hill was fired from Thames TV, the network claimed he wanted to retire. However, it turned out they lied to save face. The truth was that Hill was fired, which led to a shock among his fans. After the news broke, Hill fell into a depression and started eating excessively. Without the outlet of his TV show, he gained around ten pounds. Tragically, his health rapidly deteriorated, especially his heart and kidneys.
Final Days and Discovery
Don Taffner attempted to restart Hill's show, but sadly, Hill already had a heart attack and passed away on April 20, 1992, in his Southampton home. His body was discovered by Kirkland after his neighbors heard his television running non-stop for two days. It's a poignant reminder of the toll that depression and lack of activity can have on health.
Health and Legacy
It is believed that if Benny had signed a new will, outlining his intentions for his estate, his millions could have been left to his television family. Instead, his original will, leaving his money to his parents, failed because they had passed away. As a result, his inheritance went to his surviving nieces and nephews.
Causal Factors: Heart Attack and Kidney Failure
Benny Hill's death was due to a coronary blockage. On February 24, 1992, he had a non-fatal heart attack. His doctor advised him to lose weight to avoid further cardiac issues. However, Hill's condition worsened, and he developed kidney failure. On April 20, 1992, Benny Hill died of coronary thrombosis, clogged arteries, at the age of 68.
A Remembering of Benny Hill
While Benny Hill's legacy has been mixed in modern times, his significant impact on British comedy cannot be denied. He lived and worked through a time when humor styles were rapidly evolving. Despite the criticism and shift in comedic preferences, his unique brand of entertainment left a lasting impression on many generations. His passing, albeit expected given his health, remains a poignant moment in the history of British entertainment.