Jay North, 'Dennis the Menace' Star and Child Actor Advocate, Dies at 73

The actor passed away peacefully at his Florida home after a long battle with colon cancer, leaving behind a legacy of entertainment and advocacy for child actors' rights.

Jay North, best known for his role as Dennis Mitchell on the 1959-1963 sitcom 'Dennis the Menace,' passed away on April 6, 2025, at the age of 73.
He died at his home in Lake Butler, Florida, surrounded by family, after battling colon cancer for several years.
North faced significant challenges as a child actor, enduring abuse from his aunt, who served as his studio guardian during his time on 'Dennis the Menace.'
After leaving Hollywood, he worked as a correctional officer in Florida and became an advocate for child actors' rights through the organization A Minor Consideration.
Tributes from friends and former co-stars highlighted his resilience, kindness, and dedication to helping others despite his own struggles.

The Hollywood Reporter