Legendary 1980s TV magician Wayne Dobson who dazzled millions with mind-bending tricks dies aged 68
LEGENDARY magician Wayne Dobson has died aged 68.
His brother announced the tragic passing of the iconic 1980s TV star earlier today.
The star became the youngest ever member of the Leicester Magic Circle at age 16 after developing a love for magic at an early age.
After winning the close-up competition at the International Brotherhood of Magicians British Ring Convention, he went on to perform on Blue Peter.
This led to a long career as a successful magician, and he was loved for his witty sense of humour.
Wayne went on to perform with the likes of Dame Shirley Bassey and Freddie Starr as a guest TV star.
His success continued to grow into the 1980s as he supported Engelbert Humperdinck on an American tour.
Once he returned to the UK he performed at the 1989 Royal Variety Show where he was assisted by boxer Frank Bruno and sports commentator Harry Carpenter.
He then hosted his own show called Wayne Dobson – A Kind of Magic.
After he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1988 he became an ambassador for the Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre.
Determined to continue his magic, he returned to live performances with a show at Haslemere Hall in Surrey in 2022.
Marvin Berglas, the President of The Magic Circle 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.”
Other magicians on Facebook expressed their sadness at the news.
Wayne’s business partner Mike Sullivan wrote: “It is with a broken heart that my buddy, business partner and mentor Wayne Dobson passed away peacefully today at 12:03.”
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.”
Commenters shared their personal stories of meeting Wayne, with many praising his kindness and willingness to help others in the industry.
