1980s magician Wayne Dobson has died at the age of 68. The famous TV star, who appeared on Blue Peter, was confirmed to have died after his brother announced his death. He notably supported Engelbert Humperdinck on an American tour, and performed at the 1989 Royal Variety Performance, where he was assisted by commentator Harry Carpenter and boxer Frank Bruno. The star developed a love for magic at an early age, and he was only 16 years old when he became the youngest ever member of the Leicester Magic Circle. He later went on to perform on Blue Peter and then starred as a guest TV star alongside the likes of Dame Shirley Bassey.

He was tragically diagnosed in 1988 with multiple sclerosis, but was committed to continuing to perform magic. In 2022, he returned to live performances with a show at Haslemere Hall.

His brother Phil Dobson wrote: “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.”

Many people have already paid emotional tributes to Wayne. The Magic Mod posted on X: “Absolutely heartbroken to hear another hero of mine has passed away, Wayne Dobson. Another Magician I use to love watching as a kid a true talent and genius of the art of magic.” [sic]

Another close friend, Alex Belfield, said: “So sorry to hear about Wayne Dobson passing. A magnificent comedian & illusionist and a wonderful friend. Devastating blow to magic…”

The TwinsFX also commented online: “Our hero died today – The Legend that was Wayne Dobson – it was an honour to call him a friend.”

The 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.”