Former BBC and XFM radio star Michelle Mullane has died at the age of 50, her close pal Jason Manford has confirmed.
Michelle was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer just over a year ago and has been battling it ever since, but tragically died on Christmas Eve.
Jason confirmed the heartbreaking news as he shared an emotional and lengthy tribute on his social media.
He wrote on Twitter over many tweets: “Just found out my dear friend and ex-BBC Manchester presenter Michelle Mullane sadly passed away on Christmas Eve.
“I have so many fond memories of Michelle from when I was starting out in stand up in the late 90s.”
Michelle Mullane has tragically died at the age of 50 on Christmas Eve (Image: Twitter)
Jason continued: “Michelle was the first person to get me on the airwaves and we spent many an evening laughing, flirting & joking over brews; on air and off.
“We drank millions of cups of tea and her show ‘Michelle around Midnight’ was one of the only shows you could get on, get paid and just be yourself without having to be a big ‘tv name’.
“She was an incredible supporter of new talent and gave a leg up to so many of us northern comedians at a time where it felt like if you weren’t in London, you didn’t stand a chance. She has supported me and many others ever since.
“She will be dearly missed by so many people, not least her young daughter Liv.”
Jason Manford paid a lengthy tribute to his dear friend (Image: WireImage)
He continued: “She only messaged me the other week to congratulate me on Royal Variety and to say how proud she was of me.
“For over a year we’ve been trying to organise a charity gig – postponed due to covid – in aid of Kidney Cancer UK & Bowel Cancer Research.
“The second we are able to, I will 100% make sure this happens in your name Michelle.”
In 2019, Michelle’s world came tumbling down after she was rushed to hospital in June with horrific pains in her stomach.
Doctors then diagnosed her with bowel cancer, informing Michelle she had six months to live.
Throughout her battle, Michelle continued to raise money for Cancer Research UK as she battled her own incurable cancer.
The mum had also kept fans updated up until very recently about her treatment on her personal blog SK9 Cheshire.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
