1960′s teen heartthrob and television star Davy Jones died from an apparent
heart attack Wednesday near his home in Indiantown, FL. He was visiting his horses at a ranch near his home when he said that he was feeling unwell and having trouble breathing. He was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The death was not considered suspicious.
Jones was born in Manchester, England and was a former jockey and stage actor. In 1965, he auditioned for a new American television series, The Monkees, which was created to capitalize on the popularity of The Beatles. The pop success of The Monkees was often attributed to the strength of songwriters Neil Diamond and Tommy Boyle.
The Monkees had several hit songs, including Daydream Believer, Last Train to Clarksville and I’m a Believer. After the show ended in 1968, Jones went on to a solo career, releasing Rainy Jane, and also appeared on Broadway in Oliver! Jones played himself on an iconic episode of The Brady Bunch.
The Monkees went on a re-union tour in the mid 1980′s, and MTV rebroadcast The Monkees series. The group was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1989. Jones recently played himself on an episode of SpongeBob SquarePants.
Michael Nesmith, fellow Monkee, posted on Jones’ Facebook wall, “David’s spirit and soul live well in my heart among all the lovely people, who remember with me the good times, and the healing times.” Monkee Micky Dolenz wrote, “Can’t believe it…still in shock…My love and prayers go out to Davy’s girls and family right now.”
Jones is survived by wife Jessica, and four daughters from a previous marriage. RIP, Davy. A whole generation will miss you.
