Sir Bruce Forsyth has died aged 89
His career has spanned more than 75 years
Last updated 18th Aug 2017
Veteran entertainer Sir Bruce Forsyth has died aged 89.
He left Strictly Come Dancing in 2014 after hosting the show for a decade to concentrate on his health but recently had been too unwell to attend the funerals of close friends Ronnie Corbett and Sir Terry Wogan.
BBC Director-General, Tony Hall, released a statement saying 'Sir Bruce was one of the greatest entertainers our country has ever known. He has delighted millions of people and defined Saturday night television for decades, with shows like the Generation Game and, most recently, Strictly. His warmth and his wit were legendary.
'I've never seen anyone quite like him when it comes to performing in front of a crowd. He had a remarkable chemistry with his audience - that's what made him such an amazing professional and why he was so loved. He has been part of all our lives, and we'll miss him clearly.'
Fellow entertainers have also paid tribute.
Sir Bruce was born on the 22nd February 1928 and first got his break hosting Saturday Night at the London Palladium in the late 1950s. He hosted hit shows Play Your Cards Right and The Price is Right.
In 2012 Guinness World Records recognised him as having the longest television career for a male entertainer.
Sir Bruce Forsyth was knighted in 2011.
He leaves behind six children, including three daughters from the marriage to first wife, Penny Calvert. At the time of his death he was married to former Miss World winner Wilnelia Merced.