Val Doonican dies: The life and knitwear of the popular Irish singer, in pictures
Val Doonican, the Irish singer, has died at the age of 88, as his daughter says his batteries simply "ran out". The artist, born Michael Valentine Doonican, was loved by fans for a string of hit records as well as his long-running television series The Val Doonican show.
Val Doonican dies: The life and knitwear of the popular Irish singer, in pictures – Telegraph
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With his laid-back armchair style and his warm Irish demeanour, Doonican was one of the most popular and best-selling singers of his generation
It took him years to establish his niche, but once he had achieved success he remained at the top of his profession for more than two decades, a regular and a firm favourite on some of the most widely watched television shows of the time.
His greatest hits include Walk Tall and Elusive Butterfly, with his album ‘Val Doonican Rocks, But Gently’ knocked The Beatles’ Sgt Pepper off the top of the albums chart in 1968.
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His daughter Sarah told the Guardian: "Until 87, he was as fit as a flea. It was just old age, I’m afraid – the batteries ran out.”
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As well as his many top ten albums, he became known for his trademark knitwear as well as for performing in a rocking chair. Here are some of his most colourful sweaters and cardigans…
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1979: Val Doonican in Ireland
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Val Doonican in 1975
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1979: Val Doonican in Ireland
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Val Doonican in 1967
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1975: Val Doonican
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‘I think I need another cardigan’
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Val Doonican in 1965
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1964: Val Doonican appearing on Sunday Night at the London Palladium
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1971: Val Doonican and Dudley Moore
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1971: Val Doonican, Lulu and Eddie Albert
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In a statement, his family said: “He leaves behind his wife, Lynn (above), daughters Sarah and Fiona and grandchildren Bethany and Scott. He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather and will be greatly missed by family, friends and his many fans.”
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Val Doonican with his wife Lynne
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Val Doonican with his wife Lynn outside their home in Rickmandsworth
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Irish singer and TV entertainer Val Doonican in 2024
Val Doonican ‘Walk Tall’.
Rest in Peace Val.