John Russell Parnell (6 August 1923 – 8 August 2010)[1] was an English bandleader and musician.
Parnell was born into a theatrical family in London.[2]
During the 1940s and 1950s, he was voted best drummer in the Melody Maker poll for seven years in succession. He composed many television themes, including The Golden Shot, Family Fortunes and Love Story (for which he won the Harriet Cohen Award). He was also the musical director for The Benny Hill Show.[2]
He was also a frequent judge on the British talent show, New Faces.
He was appointed musical director for ATV in 1956, a post he held until 1981, and served as the 'real' conductor for The Muppet Show orchestra for the entire series.[2]
He was jailed for three months for a drink-driving accident in 1979, hitting a motorcyclist who lost a leg. After this he moved from Surrey in disgrace and shortly after his wife divorced him.[3]
In the 1970s he had formed the group The Best of British Jazz with Don Lusher, Kenny Baker, Tony Lee, Betty Smith and Tony Archer, which performed until 1985. The group was active from 1985 to December 1999, releasing two CDs: The Best of British Vol 1 (CDSIV 6146) and The Best of British Jazz Live (MER 99100CD).
Jack Parnell had three sons (including Ric Parnell who, among many other credits, played drummer Mick Shrimpton in the movie This Is Spinal Tap).[2]
Parnell died in Southwold, from the effects of cancer on 8 August 2010, at the age of 87.[2]