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Strictly Come Dancing icon – who also worked on Parkinson – dies aged 86 after battling a short illness

BBG News

It’s been confirmed today that a legendary figure from Strictly Come Dancing has died at the age of 86, following a brief battle with an illness.

The family of musical director, Laurence Holloway, shared the sorrowful news after his passing. He had an accomplished career in the television industry, working quietly yet significantly behind the scenes.

Initially, Laurence began his professional journey as a keyboardist in dance orchestras, later expanding his resume by contributing to the highly successful talk show hosted by Michael Parkinson.

It was announced by Abigail Holloway, the composer’s granddaughter, that he had passed away on Thursday.

Throughout his remarkable career, Laurence collaborated with numerous luminaries such as Engelbert Humperdinck, knighted artist Sir Tom Jones, Judy Garland, and Liza Minnelli.

Besides working with his late spouse Marion Montgomery, he collaborated with the likes of Sammy Davis Jr., Gilbert O’Sullivan, Mel Tormé, Bob Monkhouse, Barry Humphries, and Ronnie Corbett as well.

In the 1960s, Marion, a renowned American jazz vocalist, gained widespread fame as the regular singer on “Parkinson.

For over three decades before my passing, I resided in the enchanting lands of England. During this time, our paths crossed when you, as the gifted musical director, were engaged in your creative endeavors for a production.

She passed away aged 67 in Bray, Berkshire in 2002. 

From 2004, Laurence served as the musical director during the initial three seasons of Strictly Come Dancing. In 2013, he was honored with the title of Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his outstanding contributions to music.

During his inauguration, he shared that he had once played the piano for the late queen and Princess Margaret at Buckingham Palace, and also produced nursery rhyme recordings as a gift for the Queen Mother on her 90th birthday.

‘I don’t think she remembered, but I reminded her,’ he said.

Besides his renowned work, Holloway is recognized for creating TV show themes such as the ones for “Blind Date” hosted by Cilla Black, “Game For A Laugh,” and “Beadle’s About,” a hidden camera program.

In 1993, he was awarded a gold badge by what was then called the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors (BASCA), which is now known as the Ivors Academy.

The composer also contributed to the recording of Petula Clark’s 1960s hit Downtown.

Holloway leaves behind his two daughters, Karon and Abigail, as well as his grandchildren, Freddie, Henry, and Alfie.

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2025-01-10 19:48

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