The beloved English Christian comedian whose laughter resonated with many, has passed away at the age of 57 after valiantly battling cancer for 17 months. His wife, Bekah, and their children stood by his side as he took his final breath at Worthing Hospital on the southern coast of England.
He wasn’t just another comedian; he was a beacon of joy, faith, and encouragement for many in the Christian community and beyond. Hailing from Bournemouth, he began his career in 1988 as an escapologist, a fancy term for someone who escapes from handcuffs and straight-jackets. But his true claim to fame was his ability to blend comedy and magic tricks to share the Gospel. His unique mix of humor and message of hope took him to performances on five continents, gracing churches and events worldwide.
Married to him for 16 wonderful years, Bekah paid him a heartfelt tribute in an exclusive comment to ‘Christian Daily International’. “Steve was one of a kind and the best of men. I was fortunate to call him my husband for 16 years. His love, joy, and relentless cheerleading encouraged me to walk paths I never thought I could. And it wasn’t just me; he did that for many. He leaves a lasting legacy in the lives of everyone he met and believed in.”
They shared a big and loving family, blessed with five daughters, a son, and even a granddaughter. As they mourn their loss, they find solace in the extraordinary legacy Steve left behind.
His journey was nothing if not spectacular. His comedic brilliance landed him appearances on television and radio shows like ‘The Big Breakfast’, ‘The Disney Club’, Radio 2, and Radio 5 Live. His seamless blend of humor and faith won him admiration from all quarters, with Bear Grylls calling him “hilarious” and Jonathan Ross tagging him as “very clever indeed.”
He performed on some of the UK’s most prestigious stages, including Birmingham’s National Indoor Arena, London’s Royal Albert Hall, and Belfast’s Odyssey. But he wasn’t just a man who cracked jokes on stage. He was the editor of ‘Sorted’, a Christian men’s magazine, and author of several books like ‘The Last Laugh Journal: 22 Reflections to Help You Find Your Way to a Happier, Healthier Life’.
Facing his final days, he maintained an unwavering sense of humor and deep faith. Just five days before his passing, he posted an update on Facebook with his signature wit, despite the gravity of his situation. “Hey friends. I came into the hospital in an ambulance on Tuesday (which was exciting) because I was in a lot of pain (less exciting). Scans have shown that the melanoma the docs found three years ago has spread again, and a large tumor in my bowel has caused a perforation.”
He openly shared that surgery wasn’t an option and he was relying on morphine and antibiotics to manage his pain: “But we’ve been warned this could be an ‘end of life’ event,” he noted, yet he stayed emphatic about the love and faith that surrounded him: “God has been with us throughout, as our family held each other, came home from far away, and in the kindness of family and friends.”
Bekah, in her public statement, described the deep sorrow the family feels and their strong faith in God’s plan. “Saying goodbye to him was the hardest thing we’ve ever had to do, and we miss him more than words can say.” She vividly recounted a moment as they left the hospital, observing a glorious sunset. To her, it symbolized that “the heavens were lighting up to welcome a precious son home.”
“We never wanted this day to come, but we are glad this last week is over, and he is safe now with no more tears or pain. He died knowing he was loved by many, and now he is with the One who loves him most. There is enormous comfort in that.”
Though funeral arrangements are yet to be disclosed, Steve Legg’s enduring legacy of joy, faith, and relentless cheer will surely live on in the hearts he touched. He brought unparalleled laughter to thousands, using his God-given gifts not just to entertain but to share the Gospel’s hope. His life is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, God’s love is a bright, shining light.
As Bekah poignantly expressed, Steve is now in the eternal company of the One who loves him most, resting in everlasting peace.