Marion, widely regarded as one of the finest ringmasters in circus entertainment, passed away in hospital on Thursday night following a period of illness, her family confirmed.
For generations of Irish children, Marion was the familiar face and voice of Fossett’s Circus, playing a central role in one of Ireland’s most enduring family entertainment traditions.
Paying tribute, the Fossett family remembered Marion with great affection. Her niece, Sonya Fossett, said Marion “loved to entertain” both inside and outside the circus ring.
“She was not only the face and voice of the business,” Sonya said, “but also a mother figure to the whole family. The kettle was always on, advice was always at the ready, and the diamantés were always on standby.”
Fossett’s Circus, established by Marion’s great-grandfather George Lowe, is one of Ireland’s largest and longest-running circuses. The family business has been touring the country since 1888.
Marion’s circus career began at just 18 months old when she made her first appearance riding an elephant. She went on to master a range of circus skills, including contortion, sword balancing, and aerial performance, before succeeding her father as ringmaster in 1998.
Her talents extended beyond the big top. In 1981, Marion represented Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest as a member of the girl group Sheeba. She also competed in six National Song Contests throughout her musical career.
Her family said the loss she leaves behind is “irreplaceable” and that she will be remembered with immense love and admiration.
In a final message to her family, Marion urged them to carry on the tradition that meant so much to her.
Her last words were: “You’ve got to continue on with the show.”
