TV presenter dies after battle with cancer

TV presenter Jonnie Irwin has died aged 50, his family has said.

Irwin, who presented Channel 4‘s A Place In The Sun and the BBC‘s Escape To The Country, was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2020.

In a statement, his family said: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie’s passing.

“A truly remarkable soul, he fought bravely against cancer with unwavering strength and courage.

“Jonnie touched the lives of so many with his kindness, warmth, and infectious spirit.

“At this time, we kindly ask for the privacy of Jonnie’s family as they navigate through this profound loss. Their grief is immeasurable, and your thoughts, prayers, and support are deeply appreciated.”

The tribute added: “As we remember the beautiful moments shared with Jonnie, let us celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will forever be etched in our hearts.

More from UK

“Jonnie may be gone from our sight, but his love, laughter, and memories will live on.

“Rest in peace, dear Jonnie. You will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.”

His A Place In The Sun co-presenter Jasmine Harman said on Instagram: “My heart is broken.”

The presenter had been open about his illness since his diagnosis in the hope of inspiring others to “make the most of every day”.

Irwin was initially told he had just six months to live.

The presenter realised something was wrong with his health while filming A Place In The Sun in Italy, when his vision became blurry while driving.

At first he kept his illness private but opened up about the diagnosis at the end of 2022, when he revealed the cancer had spread to his brain.

He told Hello magazine: “It’s got to the point now where it feels like I’m carrying a dirty secret, it’s become a monkey on my back.

“I hope that by shaking that monkey off, I might inspire people who are living with life-limiting prospects to make the most of every day, to help them see that you can live a positive life, even though you are dying.”

Irwin turned 50 in November, but celebrated the milestone in March as he contended with his terminal diagnosis.

He began presenting A Place In The Sun in 2004, filming more than 200 episodes.

He accused the bosses of the show of dropping him after he revealed his terminal diagnosis – a decision the production company said was down to not being able to get insurance for him.

Irwin and his wife Jessica have three children – a son named Rex and twins, Rafa and Cormac.

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.

Please refresh the page for the fullest version.

You can receive Breaking News alerts on a smartphone or tablet via the Sky News App. You can also follow @SkyNews on X or subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with the latest news.

Pop Culture

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *