Wayne Dobson dead: Legendary TV magician who shot to fame in 1980s dies aged 68

Magician Wayne Dobson, known for his sharp humour and dazzling tricks has died at 68.

His brother confirmed the news earlier today, marking the end of a remarkable career that began when Dobson joined the Leicester Magic Circle at just 16 – the youngest in its history. The early milestone marked the beginning of a lifelong career that would captivate audiences across the UK and beyond.

Wayne’s brother Phil Dobson announced the news with a heartbreaking statement. Phil wrote: “It’s with a broken heart that I share the news that my brother Wayne Dobson sadly passed away today. He was my best friend and I miss him already. RIP legend.”

His big break came when he won the close-up competition at the International Brotherhood of Magicians British Ring Convention.






Wayne was diagnosed with MS in 1988
(
Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/Getty Images)

This success opened many doors, including an appearance on the popular children’s program Blue Peter, which introduced his talents to a broader audience. From there, Dobson’s career blossomed, and he became known not only for his extraordinary trciks but also for his sharp sense of humour.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Dobson’s career reached new heights as he toured the United States supporting singer Engelbert Humperdinck, and in 1989, he performed at the prestigious Royal Variety Show.

His act was memorable, assisted by heavyweight boxer Frank Bruno and sports commentator Harry Carpenter. He also hosted his own television program, Wayne Dobson, A Kind of Magic, cementing his status as a household name in UK entertainment.






Wayne became a household name in the UK in the 80's


Wayne became a household name in the UK in the 80’s
(
Phil Harris)

In 1988, Dobson was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition that might have ended many careers, however, he refused to let the illness define him.

Instead, Dobson became an ambassador for the Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre, dedicating himself to raising awareness and support. He continued to create and perform magic, adapting his acts as needed, and even returned to live performances as recently as 2022 with a show at Haslemere Hall in Surrey.

Marvin Berglas, President of The Magic Circle, paid tribute to Dobson’s impact on the magic community.

He said: “The magic fraternity worldwide, and our society in particular, mourn the loss of Wayne Dobson, one of the great magicians of the late 20th century.






The magician has died at the age of 68


The magician has died at the age of 68
(
Phil Harris)

“Wayne, our honorary vice-president, wowed millions with his TV shows in the 80s and 90s and his unforgettable appearance on the Royal Variety Show with Frank Bruno and Harry Carpenter brought the house down.

“He did not allow the onset of MS to stop his ever inquisitive mind devising, creating, and inventing tricks to the end. We will miss him.”

Personal messages from those close to Dobson reflected the deep loss felt across the magic world.

Business partner Mike Sullivan wrote: “It is with a broken heart that my buddy, business partner, and mentor Wayne Dobson passed away peacefully today.”

Many other fans and colleagues of his remembered Dobson for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to support others in the industry.

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

Pearl Jam’s Matt Cameron’s surprise exit after 27 years as band release shock statement

Pearl Jam has consisted of Jeff Ament, Eddie Vedder, Mike McCready, Stone Gossard and Matt Cameron since 1998, but the rock band’s line-up is now undergoing a change

Pearl Jam, which consisted of Mike McCready, Matt Cameron, Eddie Vedder, Jeff Ament and Stone Gossard in recent years, has announced a member has stepped down(Image: AP)

Fans have been told that a member of Pearl Jam has left the band after more than 20 years in the line-up. It’s been revealed that Matt Cameron has stepped down as their drummer, with them announcing the news in statements.

Matt, 62, had been in the rock band alongside Jeff Ament, Eddie Vedder, Mike McCready and Stone Gossard. After joining the line-up in 1998 as the replacement for Jack Irons, he’s featured on numerous albums and tours since then.

It however was announced this afternoon that Matt – who was once in the band Soundgarden – has stepped down from his role in Pearl Jam after more than two decades. He issued a statement about his departure on Instagram.

Matt Cameron of Pearl Jam, in a black shirt, playing the drums at an event in 2024.
Matt Cameron has announced that he’s left Pearl Jam after more than 20 years in the rock band(Image: Amy Harris/Invision/AP)

Matt described his time in the band as “fantastic” and the “opportunity of a lifetime”. He paid tribute to his bandmates in the statement shared with his followers and said that he is “forever grateful” to the band’s fans.

He wrote: “After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down from drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam. Much love and respect to Jeff, Ed, Mike and Stone for inviting me into the band in 1998 and for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, one filled with friendships, artistry, challenges and laughter. I am forever grateful to the crew, staff and fans the world over.”

He continued by writing in the message: “It’s been an incredible journey. More to follow. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.” The musician concluded his statement by signing off: “Peace and love, Matt Cameron.”

His bandmates have also addressed his departure. A statement was released by Pearl Jam on their own page today, through which his former colleagues said that he will be “deeply missed” following his departure from the group.

Pearl Jam’s statement reads: “From being one of our first musical heroes in the bands Skinyard and the mighty Soundgarden, to playing on our first demos in 1990, Matt Cameron has been a singular and true powerhouse of a musician and drummer.”

Statement issued by Matt Cameron announcing his departure from Pearl Jam
He issued a statement on Instagram earlier and paid tribute to his bandmates

It continued: “He has propelled the last 27 years of Pearl Jam live shows and studio recordings. It was a deeply important chapter for our group and we wish him well always. He will be deeply missed and is forever our friend in art and music. We love you Matt.”

The news prompted reaction from fans on the platform, with many expressing gratitude to Matt for his work with the band. One person wrote: “Matt, thank you very much for all the years of good music. We are going to miss you.”

Another said: “No way!!! But thanks for everything Matt Cameron.” A third follower responded: “Sigh. We love you Matt and don’t have enough space to thank you properly.”

They weren’t alone in expressing their disappointment, with another person commenting: “Tough day but ya gotta move on.” Someone else reacted alongside a tearful emoji: “This wasn’t expected. Not ready for it.”

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

Article continues below

READ MORE: How Oasis fans can buy face value tickets right now before live gigs

Andy Carroll takes drastic step to save Lou Teasdale romance after public row

Footballer Andy Carroll is reportedly working to save his relationship with Lou Teasdale after a series of alcohol-related arguments during a Mykonos

Andy Carroll takes drastic step to save Lou Teasdale romance after public row

Andy Carroll is reportedly working to repair his relationship with Lou Teasdale after a series of alcohol-fuelled arguments led to police involvement during a recent trip to Mykonos. The former England footballer, 36, is said to be blaming stress from his £20 million divorce from ex-wife Billi Mucklow for his behaviour.

Carroll and Teasdale, 41, began dating in 2024 after his quiet split from Billi. But last month, their relationship hit turbulence while vacationing in Greece. Carroll was reportedly questioned twice by police, once at a busy restaurant and again at a boutique hotel, over disputes with Teasdale.

A staff member at the restaurant exclusively told The Mirror at the time: “We recognised him as the footballer Andy Carroll immediately. He seemed very drunk and furious with his partner. He was using very bad words. It was improper behaviour. The woman looked very upset.”

Andy and Lou had a public spat on holiday
Andy and Lou had a public spat on holiday(Image: Instagram)

While police spoke to Carroll at the scene and later escorted him to a local station, no arrests were made. Another source claimed: “After the restaurant episode, there was another incident at the hotel. This time, the footballer went to the police station. We know the woman stayed somewhere else that night.”

A British tourist alleged Carroll shouted at Teasdale: “I’m done with us”, describing him as “very drunk” during the incident.

In response, the couple issued a joint statement downplaying the events: “Whilst having a private dinner in a restaurant on a quiet holiday in Mykonos, we had a heated discussion of the sort that most couples have had on occasion. It quickly became apparent to the police that there was no reason for them to be there.”

The couple have been together for a year
The couple have been together for a year(Image: Instagram)

“We went outside the restaurant with them together as they insisted they wanted to ‘look after’ us. As far as we are concerned, the situation has been blown out of all proportion by an interested member of the public. No one was arrested, and no one was charged with anything. We are very happy, in love and looking forward to our future together.”

Following the holiday, Carroll reportedly vowed to change. Determined to prove himself, he stayed sober at Glastonbury, where the couple celebrated their anniversary at a £38,000 luxury pop-up hotel.

An insider told The Sun: “After everything that’s gone on lately, Andy wanted to make sure their first anniversary was special. Lou’s totally teetotal so he thought it would be nice for them to spend the weekend together sober. Andy adores Lou and would do anything for her.

Andy and Lou enjoyed Glastonbury together
Andy and Lou enjoyed Glastonbury together (Image: Supplied)

“He wanted to prove to her that she means more to him than having a drink and to be able to make up for what happened on their holiday so he didn’t have any alcohol at Glastonbury.

“He knows she deserves better and wants to put any bad behaviour in the past to bed. Andy is convinced Lou is the one for him and is determined to get his act together and propose.”

The couple were later seen at the festival looking close and relaxed. In exclusive pictures taken by The Mirror, the pair seemed happier than ever as they strolled around Worthy Farm one year after meeting there for the first time.

Article continues below

The Mirror has approached Andy’s representatives for comment on this story.

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads.

READ MORE: Maura Higgins swears by this Sol de Janeiro body oil for her glowy holiday skin

16 & Pregnant star Whitney Purvis ‘arrested for involuntary manslaughter after fatal overdose’

Former 16 and Pregnant star Whitney Purvis has been arrested for involuntary manslaughter after allegedly supplying a drug mixture that caused the overdose death of chef John Mark Harris

(Image: Rome Police Department)

Whitney Purvis, known for appearing on MTV’s 16 and Pregnant, has been reportedly been arrested in Georgia for felony involuntary manslaughter in connection with a fatal drug overdose.

According to records obtained by TMZ, the 33-year-old was taken into custody in Floyd County on Monday. Authorities allege that Purvis supplied a substance known as Tranq – a dangerous combination of xylazine and fentanyl – which reportedly led to the death of 37-year-old John Mark Harris.

According to the publication, the arrest warrant accuses her of “intentionally distributing” the drug. Police responded to a call at Harris’s residence in Rome on February 17, 2025, where they discovered him unresponsive.

At the time, FOX 5 Atlanta reported that officers noted signs of possible drug use at the scene. Harris was pronounced dead shortly after.

Former 16 & Pregnant star Whitney Purvis has been arrested
Former 16 & Pregnant star Whitney Purvis has been arrested(Image: Getty Images)

Harris had worked as a chef at Barnsley Gardens and was described in his obituary as a kind and generous man who “never met a stranger” and he was remembered for his “willingness to help others.”

The obituary read: “Whether it was bandaging a wound, trips to the airport, or a place to lay their heads for a time, he was willing to lend a hand. He loved fiercely and would do anything he could for one of his friends.”

Under the online tribute, Purvis shared a personal message reflecting on their relationship and her unbearable grief. “John mark, I hate that I found out what happened today and missed your funeral. I wish I could’ve found out sooner and attended your celebration of life,” she wrote.

“You’ve came to my rescue on many occasions and saved me over the years. We bonded over being chefs, our love of cooking and our struggles. I could tell you anything and you always knew what to say or give me your honest opinion and advice.”

Whitney shot to fame on MTV's 16 and Pregnant
Whitney shot to fame on MTV’s 16 and Pregnant

She continued: “I don’t want it to be true. I’ll miss waking up to your silly messages and pictures you’d send me. I’ll miss your amazing cooking. I’ll miss snuggling on the couch watching TV with you.”

Purvis closed the message with a final tribute: “Most of all, I’ll miss you, a truly good hearted & one of a kind man, John Mark. I’ll never forget you. Rest in peace and my condolences to your family and friends. I pray they are able to find some kind of comfort during this tragic time. I love you forever, John Mark. Love, Whitney.”

However, this is reportedly not Purvis’s first legal trouble as she has prior arrests, including one for shoplifting and another for contempt of court over child support issues, according to reports.

Whitney's 16-year-old son tragically died last month
Whitney’s 16-year-old son tragically died last month

Her arrest comes just a month after a separate tragedy following the death of her 16-year-old son, Weston Jr.

In a Facebook post, she shared: “This is so hard to write. My beautiful son, Weston has passed away. He was only 16 years old. Life is so cruel and unfair. I just don’t understand.”

According to his stepmother, Weston had ongoing health problems, including diabetes, and was found unresponsive in the morning at his home.

The Mirror has approached Purvis’ representatives for comment on this story.

Article continues below

Who is Ben Shelton’s girlfriend Trinity Rodman? Her career to estranged famous dad

Wimbledon star Ben Shelton has been supported by his partner Trinity Rodman over the course of the championship amid her own career in the sports world as a professional footballer

Trinity Rodman has been supporting her partner at Wimbledon lately(Image: AFP via Getty Images)

Trinity Rodman has been among those supporting Ben Shelton at Wimbledon this month. She’s been spotted in the crowd at the annual tournament in the UK lately as the tennis player competes in this year’s championship.

Ben, 22, competed against Lorenzo Sonego in a match that was held earlier today in London. Trinity, 23, who has been romantically linked to Ben since earlier this year, was in the audience for his victory in the game, which has secured him a place in the quarter finals of the competition.

Trinity is no stranger to a sporting contest though as she’s a footballer. Described as a “rising superstar” in soccer, she’s been a forward for Washington Spirit, which is part of National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), since 2021.

Trinity Rodman, in a blue dress, sat beside Emma Shelton, in a black vest top, at Wimbledon 2025.
Trinity Rodman (left), pictured with Emma Shelton (right), has been supporting her partner Ben Shelton at Wimbledon (Image: Ben Whitley/PA Wire)

Two years ago, she’s said to have become the youngest player in NWSL history to record 10 assists and 10 goals in a regular season career. More recently, last year, she was named her team’s all-time regular season assists leader.

Trinity also plays for the US Women’s National Soccer Team. Through that team, which is joined in 2022, she’s an Olympic gold medalist following their stint in Paris last year. Trinity scored three goals for the team at the event.

Her career, which has included collaborations with brands like Adidas, has involved appearances on TV too. She was among the players followed through last year’s NWSL playoffs for docuseries For the Win: NWSL, which launched on Prime Video earlier this year.

Trinity Rodman, in a black jacket and jeans, sat beside Ben Shelton, in a white top, grey jacket and trousers, on chairs in an outdoor area.
Trinity and Ben have been romantically linked for months(Image: Instagram/trinity_rodman)

Trinity isn’t the only member of her family to have a career in sports. She’s the youngest child of retired basketball player Dennis Rodman, 64, and his ex-wife Michelle Moyer, who divorced when she was a child. Her older brother Dennis ‘DJ’ Rodman, 24, has followed in their father’s footsteps with a career in basketball.

Speaking on the Call Her Daddy podcast, in an episode released in March, Trinity revealed that she has often been estranged from her father over the year. She said that she has “made it clear that he’s not present” and it “frustrates” her being asked about him in interviews.

Trinity Rodman in a football kit on a pitch.
Trinity has her own career in sports as a professional footballer(Image: Getty Images)

She said on the podcast that she would go years without seeing him at times in her life and months without talking. She claimed that he “partied all the time” when she was growing up and has remained estranged in recent years. Trinity said at one point: “He’s not a dad. Maybe by blood, but nothing else.”

As reported by the Mirror US at the time, Dennis issued a public apology in a now-deleted post. He wrote: “Sorry I wasn’t the Dad you wanted me to be but either way I still tried and I still Try and Never will Stop.

“I will keep Trying even when you’re being told as an adult not to respond to my phone calls. I will try even when it’s difficult and if it takes a long time. I’m always here And tell you all the time rather it’s your voice or voicemail how proud I am.”

Dennis Rodman in a black t-shirt.
Her father is former basketball player Dennis Rodman(Image: Getty Images)

Dennis reportedly continued: “I always had one wish and it was I wish my kids would call me and come see me. Hopefully one day I can get that. I’m here and I’m still trying pick up the phone you have my number, You see me calling, I’m still here Dennis RODMAN- Dad.”

The outlet reported that Trinity responded to the post at the time. She’s said to have replied “a joke,” adding: “The response alone. Wiping my hands with it I’m done. Thank you.”

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

Article continues below

READ MORE: Anthropologie’s tennis-themed cardigan is a must-buy for Wimbledon fans

Who is Ben Shelton’s girlfriend Trinity Rodman? Her career to estranged famous dad

Wimbledon star Ben Shelton has been supported by his partner Trinity Rodman over the course of the championship amid her own career in the sports world as a professional footballer

Trinity Rodman has been supporting her partner at Wimbledon lately(Image: AFP via Getty Images)

Trinity Rodman has been among those supporting Ben Shelton at Wimbledon this month. She’s been spotted in the crowd at the annual tournament in the UK lately as the tennis player competes in this year’s championship.

Ben, 22, competed against Lorenzo Sonego in a match that was held earlier today in London. Trinity, 23, who has been romantically linked to Ben since earlier this year, was in the audience for his victory in the game, which has secured him a place in the quarter finals of the competition.

Trinity is no stranger to a sporting contest though as she’s a footballer. Described as a “rising superstar” in soccer, she’s been a forward for Washington Spirit, which is part of National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), since 2021.

Trinity Rodman, in a blue dress, sat beside Emma Shelton, in a black vest top, at Wimbledon 2025.
Trinity Rodman (left), pictured with Emma Shelton (right), has been supporting her partner Ben Shelton at Wimbledon (Image: Ben Whitley/PA Wire)

Two years ago, she’s said to have become the youngest player in NWSL history to record 10 assists and 10 goals in a regular season career. More recently, last year, she was named her team’s all-time regular season assists leader.

Trinity also plays for the US Women’s National Soccer Team. Through that team, which is joined in 2022, she’s an Olympic gold medalist following their stint in Paris last year. Trinity scored three goals for the team at the event.

Her career, which has included collaborations with brands like Adidas, has involved appearances on TV too. She was among the players followed through last year’s NWSL playoffs for docuseries For the Win: NWSL, which launched on Prime Video earlier this year.

Trinity Rodman, in a black jacket and jeans, sat beside Ben Shelton, in a white top, grey jacket and trousers, on chairs in an outdoor area.
Trinity and Ben have been romantically linked for months(Image: Instagram/trinity_rodman)

Trinity isn’t the only member of her family to have a career in sports. She’s the youngest child of retired basketball player Dennis Rodman, 64, and his ex-wife Michelle Moyer, who divorced when she was a child. Her older brother Dennis ‘DJ’ Rodman, 24, has followed in their father’s footsteps with a career in basketball.

Speaking on the Call Her Daddy podcast, in an episode released in March, Trinity revealed that she has often been estranged from her father over the year. She said that she has “made it clear that he’s not present” and it “frustrates” her being asked about him in interviews.

Trinity Rodman in a football kit on a pitch.
Trinity has her own career in sports as a professional footballer(Image: Getty Images)

She said on the podcast that she would go years without seeing him at times in her life and months without talking. She claimed that he “partied all the time” when she was growing up and has remained estranged in recent years. Trinity said at one point: “He’s not a dad. Maybe by blood, but nothing else”.

As reported by the Mirror US at the time, Dennis issued a public apology in a now-deleted post. He wrote: “Sorry I wasn’t the Dad you wanted me to be but either way I still tried and I still Try and Never will Stop.

” I will keep Trying even when you’re being told as an adult not to respond to my phone calls. I will try even when it’s difficult and if it takes a long time. I’m always here And tell you all the time rather it’s your voice or voicemail how proud I am. “

Dennis Rodman in a black t-shirt.
Her father is former basketball player Dennis Rodman(Image: Getty Images)

Dennis reportedly continued:” I always had one wish and it was I wish my kids would call me and come see me. Hopefully one day I can get that. I’m here and I’m still trying pick up the phone you have my number, You see me calling, I’m still here Dennis RODMAN- Dad. “

The outlet reported that Trinity responded to the post at the time. She’s said to have replied” a joke, “adding:” The response alone. Wiping my hands with it I’m done. Thank you. “

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

Article continues below

READ MORE: Anthropologie’s tennis-themed cardigan is a must-buy for Wimbledon fans