Bruce Forsyth backs assisted dying campaign: 'If I had Alzheimer's or dementia I would do something about it'

His first wife, Penny Calvert, died from dementia in a care home last year

Jenn Selby
Monday 20 April 2015 13:00 BST
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Sir Bruce Forsyth has spoken in support of assisted dying after he was forced to watch his first wife deteriorate with dementia.

The entertainer, 87, said the experience has convinced him of his right to choose to “die with a bit of dignity left”.

Speaking about his first wife, Penny Calvert, who died from dementia in a care home last year, he told the MailOnline: “It's a terrible illness, awful to see and awful for everyone close to the person suffering.

“It’s a very difficult situation. She didn’t remember me. It’s just so awful to have your mind and your memories taken away from you.

“It bothers me an awful lot that people are just left to suffer. If I had Alzheimer’s or dementia I would do something about it.”

The law, he said, should be changed to allow people to decide when they wish to die.

“If it is what the person wants and it can be proved they are living a life of suffering it can be more cruel to do nothing,” he said. “I’d like that right for myself.”

Despite splitting from Calvert 20 years after their wedding in 1953, the couple, who had three children together, remained amicable.

Sir Bruce went on to marry Generation Game hostess Anthea Redfern, before he wed former Miss World Wilnelia Merced in 1983.

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