Jay North, the actor who charmed television audiences as the mischievous Dennis Mitchell in the beloved series "Dennis the Menace," has died at age 73 following a battle with colorectal cancer.
North passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, April 6, according to close friend Laurie Jacobson, who shared the news on social media after being informed by North's former co-star Jeanne Russell.
The Hollywood native rose to fame at just six years old when he landed the titular role in "Dennis the Menace," which ran from 1959 to 1963. The series, based on Hank Ketcham's popular comic strip, featured North as the energetic young troublemaker who regularly tested the patience of his neighbor Mr. Wilson, played by Joseph Kearns.
After "Dennis the Menace" ended its four-season run, North continued acting with guest appearances on shows like "The Man from U.N.C.L.E.," "The Lucy Show," and "My Three Sons." He later transitioned to voice work for animated series including "The Banana Splits Adventure Hour" and "The Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm Show."
Following his entertainment career, North served in the U.S. Navy and later worked as a correctional officer in Florida. Despite facing challenges in Hollywood, friends remember him for his warmth and generous spirit.
"He had a heart as big as a mountain and loved his friends deeply," Jacobson wrote. "He called us frequently and ended every conversation with 'I love you with all my heart.'"
At the time of his death, North was married to Cindy Hackney, his wife of 31 years. He is survived by his wife and three stepdaughters.