BBC Michael McIntyre's Big Show fans sob as star pays heartbreaking tribute to dying wife of 58 years

Viewers of Michael McIntyre's Big Show were left deeply touched by the Unexpected Star of the Show as he paid a heartbreaking tribute to his dying wife. The comedian surprised Peter, 81, from Blackburn by asking him to close the BBC show with a song after his family nominated him for a touching reason.

Peter, whose wife Sandra has been receiving hospice care following a dementia diagnosis, visits his wife daily to serenade her with his incredible singing voice. The surprise was set up in a faux bowls shop at the back of the theatre, where host Michael McIntyre encouraged Peter to throw a bowl at the wall, revealing the audience behind it.

Peter returned at the end of the show and performed an incredible rendition of Nat King Cole's Smile. He said: "My wife always loved me singing. She gave me 58 years of marriage, three daughters, and I've known her for 62 years since we first met on a blind date.

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"The sad thing is my wife hasn't got long to live...I lean over her bed and sing. You know, you never lose your love. I love to sing, so why not use it for good?"

His story and performance moved many viewers to tears, with one commenting: "I'm in pieces listening to Peter sing - one of best Unexpected Stars of the Show EVER! ".

A second person shared their reaction: "Oh man that would bring a tear to a glass eye, well done Peter that was so emotional #michaelmcintyresbigshow."

And yet another viewer remarked: "Sobbing at the unexpected star of the show. The song, the reason for it, and the memories of Peter and his wife. What a core memory locked in for him and his family #MichaelMcintyresBigShow."

Michael McIntyre's Big Show continues next Saturday on BBC One. Fans can also catch up on the series so far on BBC iPlayer.