Aussie TV legend Bert Newton has his leg amputated

Aussie TV legend Bert Newton is recovering in hospital after having his leg amputated on Saturday.

Newton's agent, Jackie Booler, confirmed reports the star went into surgery at Melbourne’s Epworth Hospital after suffering complications from an infected toe.

Newton's wife Patti told reporters her 82-year-old husband was faced with a “life or death decision”.

"He got through the operation, it was huge," she said.

Mrs Newton said with a "big journey ahead of him, he was in really good spirits"

The 82-year-old Logie Hall of Fame inductee has been a staple across Australian screen and stage from the ripe age of 15.

Afflicted with several bouts of pneumonia over the last few years, Newton’s wife, Patti, is also recovering from a broken ankle after taking a tumble.

Patti Newton says Bert is doing surprisingly well after having leg amputated