Wayne Dobson dead: Legendary TV magician who shot to fame in 1980s dies aged 68

Magician Wayne Dobson, known for his sharp humour and dazzling tricks has died at 68.

His brother confirmed the news earlier today, marking the end of a remarkable career that began when Dobson joined the Leicester Magic Circle at just 16 - the youngest in its history. The early milestone marked the beginning of a lifelong career that would captivate audiences across the UK and beyond.

Wayne's brother Phil Dobson announced the news with a heartbreaking statement. Phil 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.”

His big break came when he won the close-up competition at the International Brotherhood of Magicians British Ring Convention.

This success opened many doors, including an appearance on the popular children's program Blue Peter, which introduced his talents to a broader audience. From there, Dobson's career blossomed, and he became known not only for his extraordinary trciks but also for his sharp sense of humour.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Dobson’s career reached new heights as he toured the United States supporting singer Engelbert Humperdinck, and in 1989, he performed at the prestigious Royal Variety Show.

His act was memorable, assisted by heavyweight boxer Frank Bruno and sports commentator Harry Carpenter. He also hosted his own television program, Wayne Dobson, A Kind of Magic, cementing his status as a household name in UK entertainment.

In 1988, Dobson was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition that might have ended many careers, however, he refused to let the illness define him.

Instead, Dobson became an ambassador for the Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre, dedicating himself to raising awareness and support. He continued to create and perform magic, adapting his acts as needed, and even returned to live performances as recently as 2022 with a show at Haslemere Hall in Surrey.

Marvin Berglas, President of The Magic Circle, paid tribute to Dobson’s impact on the magic community.

He 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 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.”

Personal messages from those close to Dobson reflected the deep loss felt across the magic world.

Business partner Mike Sullivan wrote: “It is with a broken heart that my buddy, business partner, and mentor Wayne Dobson passed away peacefully today.”

Many other fans and colleagues of his remembered Dobson for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to support others in the industry.

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