ITV Good Morning Britain host Charlotte Hawkins was forced to halt the breakfast show on Wednesday (August 10) to bring sad breaking news to the public.
The presenter, 47, was clearly saddened and upset to announce the passing of author Raymond Briggs at the age of 88.
Charlotte was co-hosting with Richard Madeley as they brought the latest breaking and entertainment news to viewers around the UK.
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As Charlotte got ready to deliver the news of Raymond’s passing, Richard remarked: “We’ve had some sad news just come in,” before Charlotte explained: “We have, it’s about the author and illustrator Raymond Briggs, who sadly died at the age of 88, his publisher, Penguin Random House, has just announced a short time ago.”
(Image: ITV)
Charlotte then turned to Richard and remarked: “Of course he’s best known for The Snowman,” to which Richard replied: “The Snowman, absolutely, wonderful piece of work.
“Written in 1978, just to bring you that breaking news. Raymond Briggs, author and illustrator has died aged 88.”
The Snowman was eventually turned into a Bafta TV award-winning animated TV film in 1982.
(Image: via REUTERS)
The two had been interviewing Education Secretary James Cleverly for the lack of Government help for people struggling with rising energy costs priot to the interruption.
As soon as the video of the breaking news about Raymond, who was also behind children’s favourite Fungus the Bogey Mab, was posted on Good Morning Britain’s Twitter there was a huge response.
One viewer responded: “Very sad news. The Snowman & The Snowdog a big part of Christmas TV,” with another tweeting: “Raymond Briggs gifted us so many beautiful stories and pictures which stay with us throughout our lives. Thank you, your legacy will continue to delight.”
(Image: Allstar/CHANNEL 4 TELEVISION CORPORATION)
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Speaking to the Guardian back in 1999, Briggs said of his writings: “There are a few books which are obviously for small children, but I don’t usually think about whether a book is for children or adults.
“After a child has learned to read fluently, at about eight or nine, then the whole idea of categorizing them seems a bit daft.”
His death was confirmed by his family, who said he will be “deeply missed.”
“We know that Raymond’s books were loved by and touched millions of people around the world, who will be sad to hear this news,” they said, in a statement on Wednesday.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
