Davy Jones, age 66, suffered a heart attack at his home Wednesday morning, Feb. 29. He was transported to Martin Memorial Hospital and pronounced dead, TMZ has reported.
Jones was the most recognizable member of The Monkees. The band was formed for the sole purpose of being the subject of the TV show of the same name. But the band’s music sold more than 50 million albums. They had three No. 1 hits, “Daydream Believer,” “Last Train to Clarksville” and “I’m a Believer.” The band formed in 1965 and played together until 1971. After the group broke up Jones continued to perform solo and with a few reincarnations of the original band.
Davy Jones also acted in movies, television and on Broadway. His movies and television roles were mostly family friendly and comedy. He often portrayed himself as he did in an episode of “The Brady Bunch” and most recently in “Sponge Bob Square Pants.” According to his biography on IMDB, he was discovered by Ward Sylvestor while acting on Broadway and brought to Los Angeles where he was given a role with “The Monkees.” Songs from his time with The Monkees continue to be popular as Smash Mouth’s version of “I’m a Believer” was featured in the movie “Shrek.” He was nominated for Broadway’s 1963 Tony Award as Best Supporting or Featured Actor (Musical) for playing the role of the Artful Dodger in “Oliver!’”
His most recent performance was with Feb. 19th in Oklahoma. He appeared at The BB King Blues Club the night before. Plans for a tour with fellow band mates, Peter Tork and Micky Dolenz were canceled last summer due to internal conflicts.
Jones always exhibited a jovial and likable demeanor. During a interview by Al Roker of NBC’s Today he joked about growing older. When Peter Tork made the comment, “He used to be a heartthrob,” Jones finished his sentence saying, “And now I’m a coronary.” He was so popular with teenage girls during his heyday that producers of the TV show “Star Trek” cast lookalike Walter Koenig to attract younger viewers and increase their female audience.
He and fellow Monkee Michael Nesmith were both born on December 30. Nesmith in 1942 and Jones in 1945.
Jones is survived by his third wife, Jessica, and four daughters.