Kym Marsh, the cherished actress best known for her tenure on Coronation Street, has opened up about the profound grief she experiences following the death of her father, David Marsh. David passed away in January after a courageous three-year battle with prostate cancer. Despite her immense sorrow, Marsh finds solace in small signs that she believes indicate her father’s spirit is still with her.
In a poignant interview, Kym shared how close she was to her father, describing herself as his “shadow” up until his final days. David made frequent appearances on BBC One’s Morning Live, where Kym was a presenter. He openly discussed his illness, aiming to raise awareness and warn other men about the symptoms of prostate cancer. His charismatic personality endeared him to viewers, and he became a beloved figure on the show. One of his running jokes involved asking Kym’s co-host, Gethin Jones, for a five-pound note each time he appeared on air. After his passing, Kym found a five-pound note in her car, which she placed in his coffin, symbolizing a promise fulfilled in a deeply personal way (BroadwayWorld) (The Mirror).
Kym’s tribute to her father extends beyond symbolic gestures. She proudly speaks of his mission to educate others about prostate cancer, emphasizing the importance of early detection and regular health check-ups. This mission has become a cornerstone of his legacy, inspiring Kym and her family to continue advocating for awareness. She revealed how her father’s diagnosis made her own family more vigilant about their health, with her brothers and son now more conscious of the need for regular screenings (The Mirror).
Amidst these personal trials, Kym has also been advancing her professional career. She recently announced her exciting new role as Cruella de Vil in the UK and Ireland tour of 101 Dalmatians: The Musical. Kym expressed her excitement about portraying such an iconic villain, a character vastly different from her real-life persona. The musical, known for its spectacular puppetry and engaging choreography, is expected to be a hit with audiences of all ages. Kym’s transformation into Cruella de Vil, complete with the character’s signature black and white hair and dramatic attire, has already garnered significant attention (West End Theatre) (BroadwayWorld) (whattowatch.com).
In addition to her stage work, Kym continues to make her mark on television. She currently stars as Nicky Walters in the BBC drama series Waterloo Road. Her resilience and dedication to her craft remain evident, even as she navigates personal hardships. Kym has openly discussed her struggles with anxiety, which were exacerbated by her father’s illness. Despite these challenges, she has learned to manage her anxiety through techniques like meditation and mindfulness, finding ways to cope and continue performing at a high level (The Mirror).
Kym’s journey through grief and professional success underscores her strength and the enduring impact of her father’s legacy. Her ability to find comfort in small signs and her commitment to raising awareness about prostate cancer reflect a deep bond with her father that continues to influence her life and career. As she embraces new roles and challenges, Kym Marsh remains a figure of resilience and inspiration, honoring her father’s memory through her actions and advocacy.