Archive July 7, 2025

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.

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.

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.

“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.

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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

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 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.”

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.”

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