RUGBY legend and renowned broadcaster John Kear left behind a six-figure fortune after his death aged 71.

The former England boss died suddenly after suffering a heart attack on his way back from a BBC broadcast on May 31.

He had been commentating on the Challenge Cup final just the day before.

The sports legend left behind an estate worth £640,841, amounting to around £628,291 after deductions.

The sum was declared in the Grant of Probate legal documents issued by the High Court of Justice today.

In his will he left the family home to his wife Dawn.

But should the property be sold, it will be split, with his wife receiving half and the kids a quarter each.

John, from Sheffield, was best known for winning the Challenge Cup at Wembley with Sheffield Eagles in 1997.

The victory against mighty Wigan is regarded as the most prestigious win in the competition’s history.

He also led the Hull team to glory in the 2004 Challenge Cup.

As a player he spent a decade playing for West Yorkshire’s Castleford, mainly as a winger, making 133 appearances from 1978 to 1988.

On the international stage, he led England to the semi-finals in the 2000 World Cup, while also coaching Wales and France.

He passed the milestone of over 700 games as a head coach in 2025.

Alongside his time on the pitch, John was also an esteemed pundit for the Beeb.

His funeral took place on June 19 in Penistone, South Yorkshire.

Friends and fans shared touching tributes online following his death.

Fellow commentator Dave Woods said: “This is devastating for all of us but especially for his wife Dawn and all John’s family.

“He was a great rugby league man, the most passionate and eloquent of evangelists for the sport.”

Sheffield Eagles said: “Everyone at Sheffield Eagles is saddened by John’s passing.

“He will always be remembered as the coach who delivered our finest hour and as a man whose passion for rugby league touched countless players, staff and supporters throughout the game.”

Hull FC shared a tribute: “Hull FC are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Head Coach John Kear…

“An iconic figure in the British game, Kear led the Black & Whites to their iconic 2005 Challenge Cup Final triumph as FC claimed the trophy for the third time in their history with a memorable 25-24 victory over Leeds Rhinos at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium.”