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We All Knew Someone Who Had a Crush on Him in the 1970s: ‘Partridge Family’ Star David Cassidy Dies at 67

Nov 21, 2017  •  Post A Comment

David Cassidy, who became a teen idol in the 1970s when he starred as Keith Partridge on the TV series “The Partridge Family,” died Tuesday in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., from organ failure, reports People magazine. Cassidy was 67.

As TVWeek reported yesterday, Cassidy had been hospitalized in the Fort Lauderdale area, where he was suffering from liver and kidney failure.

Cassidy’s family released this statement to People: “On behalf of the entire Cassidy family, it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, our uncle, and our dear brother, David Cassidy. David died surrounded by those he loved, with joy in his heart and free from the pain that had gripped him for so long. Thank you for the abundance and support you have shown him these many years.”

People also noted that “Cassidy publicly admitted his struggle with alcohol abuse in 2008. He also battled substance abuse issues, which involved a stint in rehab in 2014.

Said Variety, “In 1970, after signing with Universal, Cassidy took on the role of older brother Keith Partridge in “The Partridge Family.” Keith was the son of Shirley Partridge, who was played by [his real-life stepmother, Shirley] Jones.” Jones is currently 83.

Variety added, “Cassidy and Jones were the only cast members who were allowed to actually sing; the other kids lip-synced, while the Wrecking Crew provided musical backup. [The] theme song ‘C’mon Get Happy’ became one of TV’s most enduring songs, and helped launch Cassidy’s musical career.

“After the singles ‘I Think I Love You’ and ‘Cherish’ took off, Cassidy began working on solo albums as well. He regularly sold out stadiums, leading commentators to coin the phrase ‘Cassidymania.’ Several of his shows resulted in riots or mass hysteria, including one notable 1974 performance in Australia, which garnered calls for Cassidy to be deported from the country.”

To read more about Cassidy, please use the links above to go to the stories in People and Variety.

Here’s David Cassidy singing “I Think I Love You” on an episode of “The Partridge Family,” courtesy YouTube:

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