American-British actor David Soul, who rose to fame via the hit television series "Starsky and Hutch" in the 70s, has passed away. He was 80.

Soul's demise was confirmed by his wife, Helen, in a statement issued this afternoon, Jan. 5.

Her full statement:

"David Soul - beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother - died yesterday after a valiant battle for life in the loving company of family.

"He shared many extraordinary gifts in the world as an actor, singer, storyteller, creative artist, and dear friend.

'His smile, laughter, and passion for life will be remembered by the many whose lives he has touched."

Soul rose to global fame thanks to his role in the popular TV show Starsky and Hutch, which aired from 1975 to 1979. He portrayed Detective Ken 'Hutch' Hutchinson in the popular TV series Starsky & Hutch alongside Paul Michael Glaser's Detective Dave Starsky.

Aside from being an actor, Soul is also a singer.

In Manila, Soul is popular among Filipino music lovers for his love song "Don't Give Up On Us," which went to No. 1 on the US Billboard Chart in April 1977. It also went to No. 1 in the United Kingdom.