Des O'Connor died 'peacefully in his sleep' in hospital a week after fall at home
Telly legend Des O'Connor has died aged 88. He passed away in hospital a week after suffering a fall at his home
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Des O'Connor died "peacefully in his sleep" in hospital a week after suffering a fall at home.
The telly legend has passed away aged 88 throwing the world of showbiz into mourning.
His death was confirmed today with the star's agent confirming Des passed away in hospital on Saturday.
The presenter suffered a fall at his home in Buckinghamshire a week earlier and had been admitted to hospital for treatment.
He was thought to be making a good recovery and was able to be visited by his family.
Des was said to have been in "great spirits" and was looking forward to being discharged, but took a turn for the worse on Saturday.
The entertainer died in his sleep later that day.
His agent said: "It is with great sorrow that I confirm that Des O'Connor passed away yesterday ).
"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."
Tributes have since poured in from his famous friends and fans including his former TV co-star Melanie Sykes.
She posted an emotional message to her friend on Instagram, writing: "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."
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