Wayne Dobson, the iconic British magician who became a household name in the 1980s, has passed away at the age of 68.

His brother, Phil Dobson, confirmed the heartbreaking news, saying: “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.”

Dobson’s love affair with magic began early when he became the youngest ever member of the Leicester Magic Circle at just 16. His breakout moment came when he won the close-up competition at the International Brotherhood of Magicians British Ring Convention — a win that led to a TV appearance on Blue Peter and opened the doors to national stardom.

Known for his quick wit and commanding stage presence, Dobson became a regular on television in the 1980s and 90s. He supported Engelbert Humperdinck on tour in the US and famously performed at the 1989 Royal Variety Show, where his act featured heavyweight boxer Frank Bruno and commentator Harry Carpenter.

He later fronted his own primetime ITV series, Wayne Dobson: A Kind of Magic, solidifying his reputation as one of Britain’s most beloved entertainers.

In 1988, Dobson was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition that would have halted many careers. But Wayne refused to be defeated. Instead, he adapted his performances, continued to develop illusions, and even returned to the stage in 2022 at Haslemere Hall, proving his undying love for the craft.

He became an ambassador for the Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre, using his platform to raise awareness and inspire others facing health challenges.

Paying tribute, Marvin Berglas, President of The Magic Circle, described him as “one of the great magicians of the late 20th century.” He praised Dobson’s “ever-inquisitive mind” and his ability to keep creating, inventing, and performing despite physical setbacks.

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

Fans and fellow magicians have remembered Dobson not just for his dazzling tricks, but for his warmth, generosity, and courage in the face of adversity.