LONDON (AP) — Paul Daniels, best known for The Paul Daniels Magic Show that regularly attracted 15 million TV viewers in Britain and was sold to 43 countries, has died after suffering from an inoperable brain tumor. He was 77.
His publicist, Bex Colwell, said in a statement that Daniels died Thursday morning at his home in Berkshire, 60 miles (95 kms) west of London.
"The TV star, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor earlier this year, passed away peacefully at home with (his wife) Debbie at his side in the early hours of this morning," Colwell said.
Daniels, one of Britain's best-known magicians, didn't take up the trade full time until he was 30.
He had been hospitalized with a suspected stroke in February after falling in his home. The cause was found to be a tumor, and his terminal diagnosis was front-page news in many British papers.
Daniels liked to make fun of himself on air. He often told audiences: "You'll like this... not a lot, but you'll like it."
Mark Linsey, acting director of BBC Television said, called Daniels "an outstanding showman" who had been one of BBC's most popular figures.
Daniels also designed special effects for stage productions including "Cats" and "Phantom of the Opera."
