Jay North, best remembered for his iconic role as the mischievous youngster in the 1960s sitcom *Dennis the Menace*, has passed away at the age of 73.
His death was confirmed by longtime friend Laurie Jacobson, who is also the wife of *Lassie* star Jon Provost.
North died on Sunday, April 7, at his home in Lake Butler, Florida, after battling colorectal cancer.
Jacobson shared that his health had deteriorated in recent weeks. Surrounded by his wife Cindy and her daughters, whom he deeply cherished, North spent his final moments with family.
An only child who never knew his father, North found a sense of belonging with Cindy’s family.
In recent times, he had been largely out of the spotlight, but was moved by letters from fans delivered by Jacobson during the holidays.
North began his career with small roles in the late 1950s before skyrocketing to fame as Dennis Mitchell.
However, he later opened up about being abused on set by his aunt, his legal guardian, an experience that left him bitter toward Hollywood.
After leaving the spotlight, North turned to voice acting, later working as a Florida correctional officer mentoring troubled youth.
He also advocated for former child stars and found healing by connecting with inmates who had endured childhood trauma.
Despite the hardships, he valued lifelong friendships with fellow child actors like Angela Cartwright and Jerry Mathers.
