Bruce Forsyth dead: Legendary TV presenter dies, aged 89

Veteran game show presenter's career spanned more than 75 years

Legendary TV presenter Bruce Forsyth has died, aged 89.

Forsyth's illustrious career began when he was just 14 and spanned more than 75 years. Considered a veteran of British television, he was at one time Britain's highest-paid TV star after hosting a string of popular game shows including Play Your Cards Right and The Price is Right.

He most recently presented BBC One competition Strictly Come Dancing alongside Tess Daly, before being replaced by Claudia Winkleman in 2015.

Concern surrounding the British entertainer's health had increased earlier this year after he was admitted to hospital following a severe chest infection.

Ian Wilson, his manager, released a statement, reading: “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 18 months. With a twinkle in his eye, he responded 'I've been very, very busy... being ill!'”

His family released a statement, thanking "...the many people who have sent cards to Bruce and letters wishing him well over his long illness and know that they will share in part, the great, great loss they feel."

Forsyth's health has been a worry for some time, with the entertainer deemed too unwell to attend the funerals of his entertainer friends Ronnie Corbett and Sir Terry Wogan, who both passed away in 2016.

The host was to thank for some of the most renowned catchphrases associated with British television, including The Generation Game's "Good game, good game," "Didn't he/she do well?" and "Nice to see you, to see you..." as well as Strictly's "Keep Dancing" and "You're my favourite" which he would wittily tell every contestant he spoke to.

BBC director general Sir Tony Hall praised Sir Bruce's talents, hailing him “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,” he said.

“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 of our lives, and we'll miss him dearly."