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Bruce Forsyth: Tributes pour in for the 'King of TV'

Bruce Forsyth with Strictly co-host Tess Daly
Bruce Forsyth with Strictly co-host Tess Daly

Tributes have poured in for veteran entertainer Bruce Forsyth following news of his death, with Irish actor Simon Delaney and 2FM star Nicky Byrne among those who praised the late star.

The long-time TV host, who was well-known for The Generation Game, The Price Is Right and Strictly Come Dancing, died at the age of 89.

The presenter had been unwell for some time and was in hospital earlier this year after a severe chest infection.

Former Westlife star and 2FM DJ Nicky Byrne, who met the late presenter while taking part in Strictly Come Dancing four years ago, commended Forsyth's enthusiasm and energy.

Speaking to RTÉ, Byrne said, "He was an all-singing all-dancing type of presenter. He made it look so easy. When I met him in 2012 he would be warming up the crowd and getting people up to dance. This was all before the show went live.

"He had an amazing sense of enthusiasm and amazing energy for a guy well into his eighties at that point. I learned from him that you've got to love what you do and bring fun to the job. He certainly had that!"

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Irish actor and director Simon Delaney led the touching messages to the much-loved star on social media saying he was "a true legend."

Comedian and former The Great British Bake Off star Sue Perkins also posted a touching message to the broadcaster.

Good Morning Britain host and journalist Piers Morgan called Forsyth "one of the greatest ever entertainers".

Coronation Street actor Les Dennis expressed sorrow over the loss of one of TV's greats.

Tess Daly, who co-hosted Strictly Come Dancing with Forsyth, described herself as "heartbroken".
"He was a gentleman and a true legend," she said. "I will miss him deeply."

Daly's Strictly co-presenter, Claudia Winkleman, said Forsyth was the 'Prince of TV'.

Singer Boy George also paid his respects to "a true British legend".

Actress and comedian Miranda Hart who is currently starring on stage in as Miss Hannigan in Annie, said she will be remembering Bruce's famous cheer during her next show.

Television and radio presenter Zoe Ball heralded Bruce a "natural" and "magical" entertainer.

Actress Martine McCutcheon said Bruce was "one of the absolute greats in entertainment".

The official Strictly Come Dancing Twitter account also paid tribute to the late star, while Ore Oduba, who won Strictly in 2016, called Bruce his "hero".

Take a look back at Bruce Forsyth's most memorable moments:

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