All you ever wanted to know about Strictly Come Dancing's Bruce Forsyth

By Steve Wollaston on Oct 27, 09 09:12 AM

Name: Bruce Forsyth

Image: All-round entertainer

Best Known For: Strictly Come Dancing

Early Life: Bruce Joseph Forsyth-Johnson was born on February 22, 1928, in Edmonton, north London. His father was a garage owner, and both parents encouraged their son to pursue his interest in showbusiness. He made his TV debut at the age of 10 and left school four years later. He immediately launched himself on the music hall circuit as Boy Bruce, the Mighty Atom, playing the ukelele, banjo and accordion, as well as singing and dancing.

Career: His big break came when he compered Sunday Night at the London Palladium in 1958. He followed it up with various variety shows, including Bruce Forsyth's Big Night, Whatever Happened to Christmas and Bring on the Girls, but he is best known for hit Seventies show The Generation Game. Other series include The Price Is Right, Play Your Cards Right and short-lived sitcom Slinger's Day. He appeared in the films Star! and Bedknobs and Broomsticks. He's hosted Have I Got News For You, Didn't They Do Well? and is presently in his element as host of Strictly Come Dancing. In February 2005 Forsyth was the subject of a Bafta Tribute, and in October of the same year he received a Legend award at the Loaded Laftas.

Love Life: Married since 1983 to third wife, former Miss World Wilnelia, who is 30 years his junior. They have a son. Forsyth also has three daughters with first wife Penny Calvert and two daughters from second wife, former Generation Game hostess Anthea Redfern.

Don't Mention: The deaths of his showbiz friends Eric Morecambe, Roy Castle, Tommy Cooper, Frankie Howerd and Les Dawson. "They were very dear to me," he says.

Quote: "Although I'm predominantly known for game shows, I do prefer to be known as a performer."