Des O’Connor former host of ‘Countdown and Take Your Pick’ has died at the age of 88. He was said to have died peacefully in his sleep after a fall at his home, his agent had said.
According to reports on Sunday, a statement released by Pat Lake-Smith who is the agent and friend to Des O’Connor, reads:
“It is with great sorrow that I confirm that Des O’Connor passed away yesterday (Saturday 14 November).
“He had been admitted to hospital just over a week ago, following a fall at his home in Buckinghamshire.
“He was recovering well and had been in great spirits, visited by his family – in accordance with hospital lockdown regulations – and looking forward to going home. Unfortunately yesterday evening his condition suddenly deteriorated and he drifted peacefully away in his sleep.”
She continued: “Des, who was 88, was so well loved by absolutely everyone.
“He was a joy to work with – he was talented, fun, positive, enthusiastic, kind and a total professional. He loved life, and considered enthusiasm almost as important as oxygen. He adored his family – they were everything to him.
“He is survived by his wife Jodie, their son Adam and his four daughters, Karin, TJ, Samantha and Kristina.
“Jodie’s world is shattered, she and Adam and Des’s daughters are hurting more than you could possibly imagine.
“Des was the ultimate entertainer. He loved being on stage – entertaining a live audience.
“He always said the sound of laughter was like the sound of heavenly music. He had a fabulous international TV career, presenting his own prime-time TV shows for over 45 years.
“On stage he starred at almost every leading venue throughout the world.”
Des O’Connor presented his own prime-time TV shows for over 45 years.
He was known for shows like Today With Des And Mel and Des O’Connor Tonight.
His co-host Melanie Sykes said it was an “education and a privilege to work” alongside the television great.
She wrote on Instagram: “Des had the softest hands of anyone I ever met and the kindest of hearts.
“He had talent in every fibre of his being and was stubborn as a mule. He was the full ticket as a friend and colleague.
“When he chose me to be his co-host on the ‘Today’ daytime show it was one the greatest days of my professional life. It was an education and a privilege to work with him for the years that followed.
“We worked long hours but always laughed lots, not least because when it it was showtime he would always tell me I looked like robbers dog! These years I will never forget and nor will I forget him. Darling Des you will be forever missed. Melanie x”.
Tributes have poured from across the entertainment industry since news of his death emerged.