Magnus Magnusson dies
Magnus Magnusson presented the BBC's Mastermind for 25 years
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Monday, 08, Jan 2007 12:46
Mastermind presenter and writer Magnus Magnusson has died at the age of 77.
The broadcaster, who is perhaps best known for the Mastermind catchphrase "I've started so I'll finish", passed away at his home last night surrounded by his family.
He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last October.
"Magnus was the most generous, steadfast, loving and loved of husbands and fathers," his children said in a statement.
"He taught each of us how to live, and in the last few weeks he has taught us how to die. He did both with infinite grace."
Mark Thompson, director-general of the BBC, said: "For millions of viewers Magnus Magnusson was one of the defining faces and voices of the BBC.
"To the contestants of Mastermind, he was a tough but always fair question master, but behind this screen persona there was a family man of tremendous warmth and humanity.
"All our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time, and everyone at the BBC will share their tremendous sense of loss."
As well as his 25-year involvement in Mastermind, Magnusson's academic and journalistic careers were prolific.
After moving from Iceland to Edinburgh at an early age, Magnusson was educated in the Scottish capital and at Jesus College, Oxford.
He began his journalism career at the Scottish Daily Express before moving on to The Scotsman. After working freelance for a number of years Magnusson joined Mastermind.
As well as helping to create the historical and archaeological programme Chronicle he presented numerous television and radio programmes and published more than a score of books and translated several modern Icelandic novels and classical sagas.
In November 1989 he was awarded an honorary knighthood by the Queen for his service to the National Heritage.
Magnusson leaves behind Mamie, his wife of 52 years, and his four surviving children.