Comedian, singer and variety performer Max Bygraves has died aged 89, his agent said.
The veteran entertainer died peacefully in his sleep at home in Hope Island, Queensland, Australia, yesterday.
Bygraves, whose wife Blossom died in May last year after battling a long illness, is survived by one son and two daughters.
He also had several grandchildren.
The couple moved to Australia several years ago to take advantage of the warm climate.
Born Walter Bygraves in south London in 1922, he adopted the name Max after his hero Max Miller.
He appeared in films, stage shows and hosted gameshow Family Fortunes during a long-running career.
His agent Johnny Mans said: “His death is a great loss to the entertainment profession and a great loss to all of his friends in the industry.”
Mr Mans said Bygraves had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s two years ago. “He had become confused and often wasn’t sure where he was,” he said. “He was in good health otherwise but would have turned 90 on October 16th.
“We were hoping to do a big concert for him soon.”
Mr Mans added: “He was one of the greatest entertainers Britain’s ever produced and one of the nicest guys. He wasn’t just an artist to me, he was a real friend.”