Beloved ‘Dennis the Menace’ Actor Jay North Passes Away at 73

Jay North, the iconic child actor who portrayed Dennis in the popular sitcom “Dennis the Menace,” has died at 73. The cause of death was colon cancer.

Born on August 3, 1951, in Hollywood, California, North first auditioned for “Dennis the Menace” when he was just six years old. He went on to play the role until it ended after four seasons in 1963.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter in 1993, North reflected on his experience, saying he became withdrawn and serious due to pressures from the business and personal struggles.

After “Dennis the Menace,” North appeared in various TV shows and movies, including “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.,” “The Lucy Show,” and “The Simpsons.” He also worked with Paul Petersen’s organization, A Minor Consideration, which helped former child actors cope with real-life issues.

North is survived by his third wife, Cindy, and three stepdaughters.

Source: https://www.masslive.com/entertainment/2025/04/famous-child-actor-dies-from-cancer-at-73-at-last-he-is-at-peace.html