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Iconic 80s TV magician Wayne Dobson dies aged 68 amid battle with multiple sclerosis

BBG News

Iconic 80s magician Wayne Dobson has died aged 68.

On Monday, Phil, the entertainer’s brother, announced the tragic news through a Facebook post: ‘I mournfully report that my dear brother, Wayne Dobson, has left us today.’

‘He was my best friend and I miss him already. RIP legend.’

Wayne’s death occurred during his struggle against multiple sclerosis, a condition he was diagnosed with back in 1988.

At only sixteen years old, Wayne earned a spot as the youngest member of Leicester’s Magic Circle, having nurtured a passion for magic since his youth.

Following his victory at the British Ring Convention hosted by the International Brotherhood of Magicians, he subsequently made an appearance on Blue Peter. This exposure led to a prosperous career trajectory for him.

Later, Wayne had the opportunity to share the stage with renowned artists such as Dame Shirley Bassey and Freddie Starr. Additionally, he was privileged to accompany Engelbert Humperdinck during a tour across America.

In the ’80s, as Wayne’s fame skyrocketed, he appeared on the 1989 Royal Variety Show. During this performance, he was joined by boxing champion Frank Bruno and sports announcer Harry Carpenter.

In 1990, Wayne hosted his own TV series A Kind of Magic alongside Linda Lusardi. 

In the prime of his successful career, it was a setback for Wayne when he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1988. However, he later became a prominent figure and advocate for the Multiple Sclerosis Resource Center.

In spite of his health condition, he persisted with performing live magic, making a comeback to the stage with a show at Haslemere Hall in Surrey during the year 2022.

In the wake of his death, Mike Sullivan, his business partner, expressed his grief by saying: “With deep sorrow, I announce that my friend, colleague, and mentor, Wayne Dobson, left us peacefully at exactly 12:03 today.” According to The Sun.

Under Marvin Berglas’ presidency at The Magic Circle, it was stated that the global magic community, including our own society, deeply laments the passing of Wayne Dobson, a remarkable magician from the latter part of the 20th century.

In the ’80s and ’90s, our esteemed honorary vice-president, Wayne, captivated millions through his popular TV shows. His extraordinary performance alongside Frank Bruno and boxing commentator Harry Carpenter on the Royal Variety Show left the audience in stitches, creating a memorable moment that still resonates today.

‘Despite multiple sclerosis, he persistently kept his curious mind active by discovering, innovating, and concocting solutions until the very end. He will be deeply missed.’

Fans turned to a platform once called Twitter to share their sorrow and sadness upon learning about Wayne’s death.

They wrote: ‘I am deeply sorry for the news of Wayne Dobson’s passing. He was an exceptional comedian, illusionist, and dear friend. It is a heartbreaking loss for the world of magic…’

‘It’s another sorrowful day for the magic community. Farewell, Wayne Dobson. Your absence will be deeply felt by countless individuals. May your journey be peaceful. You were an inspiring figure to all who crossed paths with you. Rest easily, x.’

Tragically, we’re learning the sad news about the renowned magician, Wayne Dobson, who passed away tonight. He bravely battled Multiple Sclerosis for many years. Rest In Peace to an exceptional entertainer.

‘What a sad day in the magic world. RIP the amazing Wayne Dobson.’ 

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2025-07-08 00:04

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