Wayne Dobson: Legendary English magician who amazed millions with his tricks dies at the age of 68

To those into the art of magic, he was a legend. To everyone else, he was simply magical.

Wayne Dobson was interested in performing tricks and illusions from an early age and quickly mastered the art.

The Englishman became the youngest ever member of the Leicester Magic Circle at 16 and went on to perform on a number of popular TV series that were shown on TV across the world, including Blue Peter in the UK.

His brilliance and love of magic combined with his witty and engaging manner put him on the road to stardom.

Dobson went on to perform with stars including Dame Shirley Bassey and Freddie Starr.

His success continued to grow into the 1980s as he supported balladeer Engelbert Humperdinck on a tour of the US.

He then hosted his own show, Wayne Dobson — A Kind of Magic.

He was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1988. He died on Monday at the age of 68.

Tributes flowed in for the popular magician, who became an ambassador for the Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre and was still performing live until 2022.

“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,” The Magic Circle president Marvin Berglas said.

“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.”

Family, friends and other magicians also honoured Dobson.

“It’s with a broken heart that I share the news that my brother Wayne Dobson sadly passed away today,” his brother Phil Dobson said.

“He was my best friend and I miss him already. RIP legend.”

Business partner Mike Sullivan posted on social media: “It is with a broken heart that my buddy, business partner and mentor Wayne Dobson passed away peacefully today at 12.03.”

Fans also expressed their grief.

“So sorry to hear about Wayne Dobson passing,” one said.

Another commented: “A magnificent comedian & illusionist and a wonderful friend. Devastating blow to magic …’

A third added: “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.”