Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee were a legendary magician-assistant duo whose chemistry captivated audiences for decades on The Paul Daniels Magic Show (1979–1994). Known for his catchphrase, “You’ll like this… not a lot, but you’ll like it!”, Daniels, alongside his glamorous assistant and later wife, McGee, redefined British magic with humor and skill. This article explores their ages, net worth, married life, and enduring legacy, offering fresh insights into their personal and professional journey. From their meeting in 1979 to Daniels’ passing in 2016, their story blends magic, love, and resilience.
Who Was Paul Daniels? Age, Height, and Early Life
Paul Daniels, born Newton Edward Daniels on April 6, 1938, in South Bank, Middlesbrough, was 77 years old at the time of his death on March 17, 2016. Standing at approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall and maintaining a modest weight of around 150 pounds, Daniels’ unassuming physique belied his larger-than-life stage presence. His interest in magic sparked at age 11 after reading How to Entertain at Parties. Initially, he worked as a junior clerk and accountant before turning his hobby into a full-time career in the 1960s, performing in clubs and eventually selling his grocery business to pursue magic.
Daniels’ early life was shaped by his supportive family. His father, a cinema projectionist, crafted props like wooden boxes for the Selbit Sawing illusion, while his mother sewed stage curtains. This familial backing laid the foundation for his success, culminating in his television debut on Opportunity Knocks in 1970.
Debbie McGee: Age, Height, and Background
Debbie McGee, born Debra Ann McGee on October 31, 1958, in Kingston upon Thames, is currently 66 years old (as of August 2025). At approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall and with a weight of about 120 pounds, McGee’s elegance as a former ballet dancer enhanced her stage presence. Her early career included dancing with the Iranian National Ballet until the 1979 Islamic Revolution forced her to flee. This harrowing experience, including being held hostage for three months, led her to audition for Daniels’ 1979 summer show in Great Yarmouth, marking the start of their iconic partnership.
McGee’s transition from dancer to magician’s assistant was seamless, and her talent earned her a historic membership in The Magic Circle in 1991, making her one of the first female magicians to join.
Married Life: Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee’s Love Story
Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee married on April 2, 1988, in Buckinghamshire after meeting in 1979 during rehearsals for Daniels’ summer show. Despite a 21-year age gap, their relationship flourished, blending professional synergy with personal devotion. They lived in a picturesque home by the River Thames in Wargrave, Berkshire. McGee, often referred to as “The lovely Debbie McGee”, became a cultural icon, partly due to a famous 1995 quip on The Mrs Merton Show: “What first attracted you to the millionaire Paul Daniels?” McGee later reflected, “That joke gave us incredible publicity, and we laughed about it for years.”
Their marriage lasted until Daniels’ death in 2016 from an inoperable brain tumor. McGee has since shared, “Paul and I lived a fairytale life, full of laughter and magic.” She remains unmarried, open to dating but not actively seeking love, stating in 2024, “I’m content, but if love comes along, I’d embrace it.”
Net Worth and Salary: Financial Success in Magic
Estimating Paul Daniels’ net worth at his passing is complex, but sources suggest it ranged between £1.5–2.5 million ($2–3.3 million USD). His income stemmed from The Paul Daniels Magic Show, which attracted 15 million viewers at its peak, as well as stage shows like It’s Magic (1980–1982), one of London’s longest-running magic productions. Additional revenue came from quiz shows like Odd One Out and Every Second Counts, corporate gigs, and a magic shop in Wigan.
Debbie McGee’s net worth is estimated at £1 million ($1.3 million USD) in 2025, bolstered by her radio presenting on BBC Radio Berkshire, appearances on Strictly Come Dancing (2017 finalist), and her ballet company, Ballet Imaginaire. While exact salary figures are unavailable, their combined earnings from TV, tours, and endorsements ensured a comfortable lifestyle.
Career Highlights and Unique Insights
Daniels’ career was marked by accolades, including the 1982 Magician of the Year Award from the Academy of Magical Arts (the first non-American recipient) and the 1985 Golden Rose of Montreux for an Easter special of his show. His innovative Bunco Booth segment exposed fraudulent tricks, blending education with entertainment. McGee’s role evolved from assistant to co-star, performing illusions like the Rods Through Girl trick in 1987, showcasing her as a skilled performer.
A unique insight comes from my analysis of Daniels’ influence: his ability to make magic accessible inspired a generation. For example, magician Dynamo credits Daniels’ TV presence for sparking his career. Unlike modern illusionists like David Blaine, Daniels’ down-to-earth, comedic style resonated with British audiences, though he struggled to adapt to changing entertainment trends in the 1990s.
Debbie McGee’s Life After Paul: Resilience and New Ventures
Since Daniels’ passing, McGee has forged her own path. Her 2017 Strictly Come Dancing stint with Giovanni Pernice restored her “sparkle,” as she described, helping her cope with grief. She continues to honor Daniels’ legacy, working on a 2025 documentary about his life. McGee’s openness about her 2018 breast cancer diagnosis and recovery adds depth to her public persona, inspiring fans with her resilience.
Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name (Paul) | Newton Edward Daniels |
| Full Name (Debbie) | Debra Ann McGee |
| Birth Date (Paul) | April 6, 1938 |
| Birth Date (Debbie) | October 31, 1958 |
| Age at Death (Paul) | 77 (Died March 17, 2016) |
| Current Age (Debbie) | 66 (As of August 2025) |
| Height (Paul) | 5 feet 5 inches |
| Height (Debbie) | 5 feet 5 inches |
| Weight (Paul) | Approx. 150 pounds |
| Weight (Debbie) | Approx. 120 pounds |
| Marriage Date | April 2, 1988 |
| Net Worth (Paul) | £1.5–2.5 million (at death) |
| Net Worth (Debbie) | £1 million (2025 estimate) |
| Notable Show | The Paul Daniels Magic Show (1979–1994) |
| Awards (Paul) | Magician of the Year (1982), Golden Rose of Montreux (1985) |
| Awards (Debbie) | The Magic Circle’s Maskelyne Award (2017) |
| Children (Paul) | Gary, Paul, Martin (from first marriage to Jacqueline Skipworth) |
| Current Ventures | Debbie’s BBC Radio Berkshire show, upcoming Paul Daniels documentary (2025) |
Legacy and Impact on Modern Magic
Daniels and McGee’s legacy endures through their influence on magicians worldwide. Their ability to blend humor, skill, and relatability set a benchmark for variety entertainment. McGee’s trailblazing as a female magician challenges stereotypes, while Daniels’ mentorship of young magicians, like hosting private meetups, left a lasting impact. For instance, magician Roger Lapin noted Daniels’ generosity in sharing knowledge, shaping aspiring performers.
For more on their lives, visit Paul Daniels’ Wikipedia page, Debbie McGee’s Wikipedia page, or follow Debbie on X for updates on her projects.
