Entertainer Des O'Connor dies aged 88: View his Official Chart history

Des O'Connor has died at the age of 88.

The TV host, comedian and singer died on Saturday (Nov. 14) following a fall at his home in Buckinghamshire just over a week ago, his agent has confirmed.

He was known presenting prime time TV shows for more than 45 years, fronting programmes Countdown and Take Your Pick, and as a singer, recording 36 albums and touring with Buddy Holly in 1958.

O'Connor released his debut single Careless Hands in 1967, becoming his first of four Top 10s on the Official Singles Chart. The following year he scored a Number 1 hit with I Pretend.

View Des O'Connor's Official Chart history in full here.

His agent Pat Lake-Smith 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. 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.

"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."

Article image: ITV/Shutterstock