The family of Sir Bruce Forsyth have confirmed that the legendary entertainer has sadly died.
In a statement, the 89-year-old’s family said that he died peacefully, surrounded by his family and loved ones. The statement read:
“It is with great sadness that the Forsyth family announce that Sir Bruce passed away this afternoon, peacefully at his home surrounded by his wife Wilnelia and all his children.
“A couple of weeks ago, a friend visited him and asked him what he had been doing these last eighteen months.
“With a twinkle in his eye, he responded ‘I’ve been very, very busy… being ill!’ Unfortunately, not long after this, his health deteriorated and he contracted bronchial pneumonia.
“The family would like to express their thanks to the many people who have sent cards and letters to Bruce wishing him well over his long illness and know that they will share in part, the great, great loss they feel.
“There will be no further comment at the moment and it would be much appreciated if the privacy of Sir Bruce’s family is respected at this most difficult time.”
Sir Bruce held the Guinness World Record for longest television career, which began when he was just 14. He became a household name presenting shows such as ‘The Price is Right’, ‘Play Your Cards Right’ and later ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, which he stepped down from in 2014.
In 2015 he was admitted to hospital for keyhole surgery following two aneurisms. He is survived by his wife Lady Wilnelia Forsyth, six children, nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
