BBC Breakfast’s Naga Munchetty had to hold back her tears live on air after announcing Bill Turnbull’s death.
Naga and her co-host Charlie Stayt were briefed just before 9am and celebrated their former BBC colleague on the show on Thursday (September 1).
Charlie said: “We have some sad news to bring you this morning, our former colleague, former Breakfast presenter Bill Turnbull has died. He’d been diagnosed with cancer in 2017.”
READ MORE: BBC Breakfast’s Naga Munchetty ‘enjoys’ Bradley Walsh ‘waking up to her’ in cheeky quip
The pair then read out the statement released by Bill’s wife Sesi as she confirmed his passing and said he was “his usual determined self right till the very end”.
The pair then introduced a short video video of Bill’s life and career.
However, when the camera panned back to the studio, presenter Naga looked very sad.
(Image: BBC)
She told viewers: “Of course all of us here sending love and support to Bill’s family, to Sesi his wife, and I think today after we’ve gotten over the shock of this, we will start remembering the really funny things that Bill did.
“Just like when I presented with him, his energy was amazing. He came into this programme and threw everything at it, every single day.
(Image: WireImage)
“He was funny when we sat here on the sofa, he was a brilliant journalist, and he loved this programme and he loved serving you, the audience. So I’m sure you will miss him, but we certainly will too.”
Charlie then added: “He was a wise head, but he didn’t take himself too seriously when he sat here, which is a great combination.”
(Image: PA)
The veteran broadcaster passed away following a battle with prostate cancer.
The former BBC Breakfast host died peacefully surrounded by his loved ones at home on Wednesday (31 August).
Bill was originally diagnosed with the disease in 2017.
His family shared the following statement: “Following a challenging and committed fight against prostate cancer, Bill passed away peacefully at his home in Suffolk surrounded by his family on Wednesday, 31st August.
“Bill was diagnosed in 2017 and has had outstanding medical care from the Royal Marsden and Ipswich Hospitals, St Elizabeth Hospice and his GP.
(Image: BBC)
“He was resolutely positive and was hugely buoyed by the support he received from friends, colleagues, and messages from people wishing him luck. It was a great comfort to Bill that so many more men are now testing earlier for this disease.
“Bill will be remembered by many as a remarkable broadcaster who brought warmth and humour into people’s homes on BBC Breakfast and Classic FM.
“He was also a devoted Wycombe Wanderers fan and an ever-aspiring beekeeper. Bill was a wonderful husband and father to his three children; his family and friends will miss how he always made them laugh, and the generosity and love he shared with those around him.”
“Bill was a wonderful husband and father to his three children; his family and friends will miss how he always made them laugh, and the generosity and love he shared with those around him.”
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