Paul Daniels' official website has confirmed this morning that the magician and entertainer is terminally ill.
The announcement is linked to his twitter account and reads: “We can confirm that one of our greatest magicians and entertainers of all times, Paul Daniels, has sadly been diagnosed with an incurable brain tumour.
“On behalf of Paul, Debbie and their families we thank you for your kind concerns and support at this sad time and ask that their privacy continues to be respected.
“There will be no further comments at this time.”
The popular children’s performer originally from Middlesborough is best known for BBC hit Wizbit (1986 – 1987), and The Paul Daniels Show, which he hosted with his second wife, Debbie McGee from 1979 until 1994. He’s also fondly impersonated for his famous catchphrase - "You'll like this ... not a lot, but you'll like it!” and his celebrated Chop Cup routine.
With a show business career spanning nearly four decades Paul, 77, has remained a British household name throughout the years with appearances in iconic programmes, including Blankety Blank, Wogan, Have I Got News for You, Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway, and as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing in 2010.
