Magician Roy Horn dies after contracting coronavirus aged 75

Legendary illusionist Roy Horn has died of complications from the coronavirus. He was 75.

He and Siegfried Fischbacher were famous for the use of white lions and tigers during their shows.

"Today, the world has lost one of the greats of magic, but I have lost my best friend," Siegfried said.

"From the moment we met, I knew Roy and I, together, would change the world. There could be no Siegfried without Roy, and no Roy without Siegfried.

"Roy was a fighter his whole life including during these final days. I give my heartfelt appreciation to the team of doctors, nurses and staff at Mountain View Hospital who worked heroically against this insidious virus that ultimately took Roy’s life."

It was in 2003 that Horn was forced to stop performing after a white tiger attacked him during a show.