Rugby league in mourning after shock death of star fullback – ‘wicked sense of humour and a killer smile’

Footy fans are mourning the death of Danny Peacock, who was a cult hero with Western Suburbs and the Gold Coast Seagulls before finishing his career in England with Bradford.

Peacock, 57, was found at a Toowoomba motel in Queensland on Thursday.

The sad development follows the break-up of his marriage earlier this year.

Peacock made his first-grade debut with the Magpies in 1988, and was a crowd favourite due to his speed.

Next was a move to the Seagulls three seasons later, before finishing his time on Australian shores with the South Queensland Crushers in 1996.

In the twilight of his career, Peacock was a standout for the Bulls in England before retiring in 1999 due to a knee injury.

In the twilight of his career, Peacock turned out for the Bulls in England (pictured) before retiring in 1999 due to a knee injury

Former teammate Allan Fallah said a number of Western Suburbs Magpies stars were devastated by the news

On the field, 1997 was also a year to remember for Peacock, who was named in the Super League ‘Dream Team’ following a strong debut season with the Bulls playing in the centres. 

Former teammate Allan Fallah said a number of Magpies were devastated by the news.

‘Danny was a popular guy, quiet, but he had a wicked sense of humour and a killer smile,’ Fallah told Wide World of Sports.

‘He had a horrific injury against Parramatta, a dislocated hip, and it looked like that would end his career, but he came back from that.’

A number of supporters paid tribute to Peacock – a utility back – online.

‘Fondly remember his time at the Magpies, rest in peace mate,’ posted one.

‘I remember watching Danny Peacock play as a kid. Very sad news,’ said another.

‘One of the greats, legendary bloke and will be remembered (by many). Rest in peace,’ a third weighed offered.