Quiz host Bob Holness dies Broadcaster Bob Holness has died today aged 83. Holness, best known as the host of the ITV1 quiz Blockbusters, had a career spanning almost 60 years. A statement released on Friday by his family said he "died peacefully in his sleep early this morning." Holness, who suffered a number of strokes and has been in a nursing home, leaves his wife Mary, three children and seven grandchildren.