The news was confirmed earlier today in a statement from his family. This read: "It is with heavy hearts that we bring you such sad news. "Our dear friend and yours, John Challis, has died peacefully in his sleep, after a long battle with cancer. " © GETTY John Challis has died after a battle with cancer His family went on to add how he will "always be loved for being 'Boycie'.
They wrote: "He leaves a great legacy of work that will continue to bring pleasure and smiles for many years to come. "They asked for privacy at this time but promised there will be an upcoming occasion to "celebrate John's life".
Earlier this month, John cancelled a speaking tour due to ill health. He began on a 30 date tour in September but had to end it after only.
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