Bill Kenwright dead: Everton chairman dies aged 78 after liver cancer surgery

Everton’s chairman, Bill Kenwright, has died, it has been announced. The news of his death was confirmed by the club on Tuesday (October 24) on social media, with tributes pouring in for the 78-year-old.

The club said: "Everton Football Club is in mourning following the death of Chairman Bill Kenwright CBE, who passed away peacefully last night aged 78, surrounded by his family and loved ones."

His death comes less than two weeks after he was admitted to intensive care following complications during surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from his liver. Kenwright revealed in April he had been diagnosed in 2015 with “a chronic illness” that would likely worsen.

The chairman had kept up with all of his club obligations up until the day of the procedure, working hard with owner Farhad Moshiri to enable the planned acquisition by 777 Partners and assisting (director of football) Kevin Thelwell with the team's summer transfer activities.

His death came amid protests by Everton fans who have been calling for his resignation over the board’s mismanagement. 

Ipswich Town paid a tribute in a social media post. It said: "The thoughts of everyone at #itfc are with Bill’s friends, family and those at Everton at this time. May he rest in peace."

Sheffield Wednesday wrote: "The thoughts of everyone at Sheffield Wednesday are with Everton FC and the family and friends of Bill Kenwright at this sad time. RIP"

Comedian Jason Manford also paid a tribute to Kenwright who he said had a “deep love for theatre and football”. In a post to X, formerly Twitter, Manford wrote: “Saddened to hear Bill Kenwright has died.

"Met up with him several times over the years as we attempted to work together so very sad that will now never happen. Was always funny and honest and with a deep love for theatre and football. Will be sadly missed.”

Singer Antony Costa, who is friends with Kenwright, wrote on X: “Just heard the news my friend, and mentor and the person who gave me the chance to perform on stage Mr Bill Kenwright has passed away. You were one in a million Sir… we loved talking football R.I.P Bill xx”