Latest news with #WayneDobson
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
TV magician Wayne Dobson dies, aged 68
Former TV magician Wayne Dobson has died at the age of 68. The Leicester-born entertainer became a well-known face through appearances on British television variety shows in the late 1980s before landing his own ITV series, which ran from 1991 to 1993. He was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 31 but continued to perform live until 2003. A representative said he died on Monday following "several months of debilitating illness". Dobson's wisecracking style of magic saw him rise to prominence through the 1980s. He was hired as a support act for Engelbert Humperdinck's Las Vegas residency in 1988, before receiving his multiple sclerosis diagnosis a short time later. Despite this setback, a well-received appearance at the The Royal Variety Performance in 1989 saw him given a regular spot on Joe Longthorne's TV show before ITV commissioned his series Wayne Dobson - A Kind of Magic. Featuring Linda Lusardi as his regular assistant, the show ran until 1993. While his multiple sclerosis symptoms continued to worsen in the years that followed, Dobson continued to tour. At one point he became part of Joe Pasquale's live show. When he became unable to perform live any longer, he started a business selling his routines, illusions and creations to magicians around the world. He continued to make regular appearances at conventions until two years ago. In the 2010s he became a supporter of the MS Society. In a statement, the charity said: "Diagnosed with MS in 1988, Wayne was a passionate supporter of MS research and used his magic to inspire others. "He once said he wished he could make MS disappear. We won't stop until that's a reality." Follow BBC Leicester on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@ or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210. MS Society
BBC News
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
TV magician Wayne Dobson dies, aged 68
Former TV magician Wayne Dobson has died at the age of Leicester-born entertainer became a well-known face through appearances on British television variety shows in the late 1980s before landing his own ITV series, which ran from 1991 to was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 31 but continued to perform live until 2003.A representative said he died on Monday following "several months of debilitating illness". Dobson's wisecracking style of magic saw him rise to prominence through the was hired as a support act for Engelbert Humperdinck's Las Vegas residency in 1988, before receiving his multiple sclerosis diagnosis a short time this setback, a well-received appearance at the The Royal Variety Command Performance in 1989 saw him given a regular spot on Joe Longthorne's TV show before ITV commissioned his series Wayne Dobson - A Kind of Linda Lusardi as his regular assistant, the show ran until his multiple sclerosis symptoms continued to worsen in the years that followed, Dobson continued to one point he became part of Joe Pasquale's live he became unable to perform live any longer, he started a business selling his routines, illusions and creations to magicians around the continued to make regular appearances at conventions until two years the 2010s he became a supporter of the MS a statement, the charity said: "Diagnosed with MS in 1988, Wayne was a passionate supporter of MS research and used his magic to inspire others."He once said he wished he could make MS disappear. We won't stop until that's a reality."
Daily Mail
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Eighties magician Wayne Dobson's ex-wife Marianne shares 'sadness' in heartfelt tribute upon his death aged 68 amid his battle with multiple sclerosis
Wayne Dobson's ex-wife Marianne has shared a heartfelt tribute to the 80s magician upon the sad news of his death. The entertainer's brother Phil confirmed Wayne had passed away at the age of 68 in a statement shared to Facebook on Monday. Wayne, who became the youngest member of Leicester Magic Circle aged 16, had a lengthy battle with multiple sclerosis (MS), which he was diagnosed with in 1988. Following the news of his death, his ex-wife Marianne shared her 'sadness' and looked back at their years of 'real joy' before their difficult split. The couple got together in 2000 and tied the knot five years later. However, they split in 2014, with Wayne alleging that she had an affair with his best friend Bobby Davro - which they both strongly denied. Despite their difficult separation, Marianne praised Wayne for his 'charisma and passion for magic', which she said has left a 'lasting' impression on the industry. In a statement, Marianne - who now works as a hairdresser in Hampshire - shared her sadness over his passing but voiced her 'gratitude' for her years with Wayne. 'Today, I find myself reflecting on Wayne, my late husband, with a mix of sadness and gratitude,' she told MailOnline. 'Although in recent years our paths had drifted apart, I want to honour the good times we once shared. In our earlier years, we had love, laughter, and memories that I will always cherish. 'Wayne lived with a dreadful disease that no one should have to endure, and he faced it with a resilience that was nothing short of remarkable. 'Despite the challenges, he remained an inspiring figure especially within the magic community, where he was so deeply respected and admired. 'His skill, charisma, and passion for magic left a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure to know or watch him. 'People often have no idea what it's like caring for someone with such debilitating effects of his illness, The strain it puts on a relationship, on both sides, can be immense. 'Despite everything he faced, I think most would agree that Wayne always rose above the challenges thrown at him with strength, dignity, and a deep passion for his craft. 'Though our story changed course in 2014, I want people to know that there was once real joy between us. 'Wayne, Thank you for the Magic on stage and in life. God bless … Sleep well.' Wayne and Marianne - who has sons Jonathan and Julian from a past relationship - met at a Surrey hospital in 2001 when he was having physiotherapy. Marianne was going through a marriage split at the time while Wayne had divorced his first wife Karen six months earlier. The magician previously said their attraction was 'instant' and described Marianne as the 'love of his life' in a 2008 interview. They married four years later but their divorce was finalised in 2016 after a bitter two-year ordeal. Following their separation, Wayne alleged that Marianne had slept with his best friend, fellow TV magician Bobby Davro, claims which they strongly denied. Wayne first met Bobby when they both rose to fame in the 1980s and they became close friends, often spending time together on the magic circuits. Wayne claimed Marianne and Bobby spent time together while he toured with his magic act, but alleged after his marriage breakdown that they had an affair. 'I trusted him and my wife and they let me down,' Wayne told the Mirror. 'I blame Bobby for being weak, myself for having a disease that means I'm in this wheelchair and my wife for hurting me.' Both Bobby and Marianne strongly denied Wayne's claims that they slept together, according to the Mirror. A representative for Bobby told MailOnline in 2016: 'We find it interesting that Mr Dobson would choose to make these false allegations at this time when Bobby is notably unable to comment. 'However we can confirm that Bobby never had an affair with Marianne and considered both her and Wayne to be good friends. He will be deeply saddened to hear these untrue accusations.' At the time, Marianne said of the reason for their split: 'I could no longer cope with Wayne's disability. I've had breast cancer myself which I've just got over.' Wayne's brother Phil confirmed the magician's death in a statement shared to Facebook on Monday. It read: 'It's with a broken heart that I share the news that my brother Wayne Dobson sadly passed away today. He was my best friend and I miss him already. RIP legend.' Wayne's last years were spent living at Grovers Manor in Hindhead, Surrey, with round the clock care amid his battle with multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the brain and spinal cord, which control bodily functions. Wayne became the youngest member of Leicester Magic Circle at age just 16 after showing an interest in magic from an early age. After winning the International Brotherhood of Magicians British Ring Convention, he went on to appear on Blue Peter, which in turn sparked a successful career for him. Wayne went on to perform with the likes of Dame Shirley Bassey and Freddie Starr, while he also as supported Engelbert Humperdinck on an American tour. As his popularity continued to soar in the 80s, Wayne performed on the 1989 Royal Variety Show, where he was assisted by boxing champ Frank Bruno and sports commentator Harry Carpenter. In 1990, Wayne hosted his own TV series A Kind of Magic alongside Linda Lusardi. Amid his flourishing career, Wayne was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1988, with the star going on to become an ambassador for the Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre. Despite his illness, he continued with live magic, returning to the stage with a show at Haslemere Hall in Surrey in 2022. Amid his passing, his business partner Mike Sullivan shared :'It is with a broken heart that my buddy, business partner and mentor Wayne Dobson passed away peacefully today at 12:03', reports The Sun. While President of The Magic Circle, Marvin Berglas, said: 'The magic fraternity worldwide, and our society in particular, mourn the loss of Wayne Dobson, one of the great magicians of the late 20th century. 'Wayne, our honorary vice-president, wowed millions with his TV shows in the 80s and 90s and his unforgettable appearance on the Royal Variety Show with Frank Bruno and boxing commentator Harry Carpenter brought the house down. 'He did not allow the onset of MS to stop his ever inquisitive mind devising, creating and inventing tricks to the end. We will miss him.' Fans also took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to express their grief and sadness over Wayne's passing. They penned: 'So sorry to hear about Wayne Dobson passing. A magnificent comedian & illusionist and a wonderful friend. Devastating blow to magic…' 'Another sad day for magicians worldwide. Rest In Peace, Wayne Dobson. You will be missed by so many. God bless you. You truly was an inspiration to everyone you met. Sleep well x.' 'Sad news tonight that brilliant magician Wayne Dobson has passed away. Poor fella struggled for years with MS. R.I.P to a great entertainer.' 'What a sad day in the magic world. RIP the amazing Wayne Dobson.' WHAT IS MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS? Multiple sclerosis (known as MS) is a condition in which the immune system attacks the body and causes nerve damage to the brain and spinal cord. It is an incurable, lifelong condition. Symptoms can be mild in some, and in others more extreme causing severe disability. MS affects 2.3 million people worldwide - including around one million in the US, and 100,000 in the UK. It is more than twice as common in women as it is in men. A person is usually diagnosed in their 20s and 30s. The condition is more commonly diagnosed in people of European ancestry. The cause isn't clear. There may be genes associated with it, but it is not directly hereditary. Smoking and low vitamin D levels are also linked to MS. Symptoms include fatigue, difficulty walking, vision problems, bladder problems, numbness or tingling, muscle stiffness and spasms, problems with balance and co-ordination, and problems with thinking, learning and planning. The majority of sufferers will have episodes of symptoms which go away and come back, while some have ones which get gradually worse over time. Symptoms can be managed with medication and therapy. The condition shortens the average life expectancy by around five to 10 years.
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Legendary 80s magician and TV star Wayne Dobson dies aged 68
Celebrated 80s magician and TV star Wayne Dobson has died aged 68. At the peak of his fame, he had his own TV series, Wayne Dobson – A Kind of Magic, which ran from 1990 until 1992. Phil Dobson announced that his brother had died on Monday via a statement on Facebook. "It's with a broken heart that I share the news that my brother Wayne Dobson sadly passed away today," he wrote. "He was my best friend and I miss him already. RIP legend." From the age of 16, his story with magic began when he became the youngest ever member of the Leicester Magic Circle. Dobson made his TV debut on Blue Peter after he won a competition with the International Brotherhood of Magicians British Ring Convention. It was this success that spurred him on to become a magician full-time at the age of 21. Dobson starred as the opening act on tour for Dame Shirley Bassey and Freddie Starr. In 1988, he cracked America when he went on tour with Engelbert Humperdinck across Las Vegas, Lake Tahoe, Hollywood, Los Angeles, Atlantic City and Chicago. It was a success. The magician put on an impressive performance at the 1989 Royal Variety Show in front of Queen Elizabeth, where he was assisted by boxing's Frank Bruno and sports commentator Harry Carpenter. In 1988, Dobson was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis behind the scenes but he continued to perform magic. Never letting it stop his love of performing and magic, his most recent performance was at Haslemere Hall in Surrey in 2022. According to the NHS, it is a condition that affects the brain and the spinal cord. The magician became an ambassador for the Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre (MSRC) charity. Dobson previously spoke about his experience of having multiple sclerosis (MS). "I respect my illness but MS definitely makes my life more complicated," he told The Express in 2016. "Overall though, I feel lucky to still be living my dream. Magic definitely keeps me going." Also in 2016, the magician divorced his wife Marianne. He was quoted by The Mirror saying: "The divorce has been one of the most stressful things to deal with because it just dragged on. But I am over it now and just focused on work... I don't want a girlfriend. I feel most at home with magicians — they're like my family." In the wake of Dobson's death, people in the magic world have paid tribute to the magic legend. President of The Magic Circle, Marvin Berglas, said: "The magic fraternity worldwide, and our society in particular, mourn the loss of Wayne Dobson, one of the great magicians of the late 20th century. "Wayne, our honorary vice-president, wowed millions with his TV shows in the 80s and 90s and his unforgettable appearance on the Royal Variety Show with Frank Bruno and boxing commentator Harry Carpenter brought the house down. "He did not allow the onset of MS to stop his ever inquisitive mind devising, creating and inventing tricks to the end. We will miss him." Business partner Mike Sullivan wrote: "It is with a broken heart that my buddy, business partner, and mentor Wayne Dobson passed away peacefully today."
Metro
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
90s TV Magician Wayne Dobson dies aged 68 after long battle
Wayne Dobson, a beloved musician best known for his 80s TV series, Wayne Dobson – A Kind of Magic, has died after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis. The star marked his 68th birthday just two days before he died on July 7, with his family and friends announcing the sad news on social media. Dobson's brother, Phil Dobson, announced on Facebook: 'It's with a broken heart I share the news that my Brother Wayne Dobson sadly passed away today. 'He was my best friend and I miss him already. RIP legend.' Mike Sullivan, Dobson's long-time business partner, also posted: 'It is with a broken heart that my buddy, business partner & mentor Wayne Dobson passed away peacefully today at 12:03. 'I will, of course, be adding more later, but for now.' Dobson became the youngest ever member of the Leicester Magic Circle at the age of just 16, after developing an interest in magic when he was just a child. He appeared on Blue Peter and performed semi-professionally as a magician when he was young, and at 21 became a full-time magician. In the 80s, his fame found him performing as an opening act for the likes of Dame Shirley Bassey and Englebert Humperdinck and notably performed at the 1989 Royal Variety Performance. In the 90s, he earned his own TV series called Wayne Dobson – A Kind of Magic. The series raked in millions of viewers every Saturday night. In 1988, the star was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and became an advocate and ambassador for various charities supporting those with the disease. MS prevented him from performing later in his career, but he continued working in magic as a lecturer and mentor to those in the industry. His last TV appearance was in 2018 when he appeared in Channel 5's Greatest TV Moments of the 1980s to discuss his Royal Variety Performance. Per the NHS website, Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. It cannot currently be cured, but treatment can often help manage it. Some of the most common symptoms include: feeling extremely tired (fatigue) problems with your eyes or your vision, such as blurred vision or eye pain numbness or a tingling feeling in different parts of the body feeling off balance, dizzy or clumsy (uncoordinated) muscle cramps, spasms and stiffness needing to pee more often or not being able to control when you pee problems with memory or concentration sexual problems, including a dry vagina or erection problems Symptoms may come (called 'flare-ups' or 'relapses') and go (called 'remissions'), and may get worse over time. Dobson was married twice in his life. He married Karen Dobson in 1999, and the couple was together for several years, living together in Camberley in Surrey. The couple later split, and Dobson went on to marry Marianne Gomma, who would become his carer as his illness progressed. Marianne and Dobson divorced in 2016 after claims that Marianne had an affair with Dobson's close friend Bobby Davro. Dobson told The Mirror at the time: 'The divorce has been one of the most stressful things to deal with because it just dragged on. But I am over it now and just focused on work. 'I've not heard from Bobby for a long time, but it's probably for the best. Marianne and I are over. 'Magic has been my medicine. I don't want a girlfriend. I feel most at home with magicians – they're like my family.' Very sorry to learn of the passing of Wayne Dobson. I remember watching A Kind of Magic and he was a very delightful magician who deserved so much more from his TV career, had multiple sclerosis not hampered his ability to perform. May he rest in peace. — Davey Davey (@DaveyDavey360) July 7, 2025 Fellow magician Shaun Ames paid tribute to the late star with a heartfelt post on Facebook: 'Still trying to process the news that my dear friend Wayne Dobson passed away today. 'Wayne wasn't just a legendary magician — he was one of the funniest, sharpest, most generous people I've ever known. He made millions laugh on TV and inspired generations of magicians, but to me, he was just Wayne — my mate who always had a wicked sense of humour and time for a chat. More Trending 'Our last message yesterday had him laughing so hard he literally pissed himself — and I say that with love because he would've been howling at that being the final punchline. that was our last moment, I'm beyond grateful it was full of laughter. We always laughed. 'It's been overwhelming seeing so much love pouring out for him today across Facebook. He touched so many lives — on stage and off. 'Rest easy, Wayne. You were one of a kind, and I'll miss you terribly.' View More » Keelan Leyser said: 'I'm sad today. My friend and idol passed away. Going to really miss him. Wayne Dobson was a huge inspiration to me, as a child from the magic side but more importantly as an adult for not letting the most awful disease stop him from doing anything. Thank you for all the advice, the laughs and the magic.' Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Noel Gallagher's ex Meg Mathews explains why she left Oasis' comeback gig early MORE: 'Disaster struck when I went to see Oasis perform 16 years ago' MORE: Geri Halliwell only Spice Girl to snub Mel B's wedding to Rory McPhee
