Ageless Des O'Connor often credited his youthful looks to a very strict eating regime which he branded the Des Diet.
The entertainment industry is in mourning after the death of the former Take Your Pick favourite this weekend.
In what was known in showbiz circles as the Des Diet, the TV star would eat only one meal every day.
He claimed his vitality and youthful demeanour was partly due to his reduced food intake.
He was famed for his age-defying appearance and it was down to his hard work off screen.
Sir Cliff Richard and Prince Charles also, it was claimed, had both followed the TV legend's plan.
The diet usually included a light breakfast, skipping lunch and having one main meal in the early evening.
Veteran entertainer Des is said to begun the lifestyle before he turned 50.
After becoming a father for the fifth time when he was in his 70s, he reportedly told friends he put his relentless energy and zest for live down to his special diet.
Prince Charles soon discovered the benefits as well.
Royal insiders revealed Charles followed the Des Diet - but didn't mention for how long.
One courtier told the Daily Mail: "It can be a problem sometimes. When we do day visits or foreign tours, he can go the whole day without stopping for a break, which means we all have to miss our lunch as well.
"It's good in a way, because it means he has time to meet more people, but he doesn't seem to notice all the rumbling stomachs around him. You just learn that you have to have a big breakfast on those days."
TV star Des passed away in his sleep following a fall at his family home aged 88.
Des' agent said in a statement: "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.