Viewers of Bradley Walsh’s BBC game show Blankety Blank were sad to learn that a contestant who appeared on the latest episode and ended up winning the show had died
A Blankety Blank star has sadly died before their episode aired.
The revived BBC game show, which is now hosted by Bradley Walsh, returned with another episode on Saturday (June 14). Winning contestant Nathanael Hill walked away with the jackpot prize – but viewers were sad to hear he passed away months ago.
A tribute to RAF veteran Nathanael, a father, appeared at the end of the episode. The programme shared a photo of him on horseback and the words: “Nathanael Hill 1985-2025”.
Fans of the show were shocked the news and flocked to social media to pay tribute. One wrote on X: “‘Wow. That’s so sad. RIP Nathaneal. #blanketyblank”, and another said: “Wow Nathaniel died, wonder what happened. #BlanketyBlank”.
A third penned: “Well I don’t normally bother with the credits at the end of #blanketyblank but that was a sad way to finish a jolly show”.
“Jesus. RIP Nathanael,” said another. A fifth posted: “Well I wasn’t expecting that. Poor Nathanael. RIP”.
Nathanael was just 39 years old when he died in April. He had completed six tours of Iraq and four tours of Afghanistan during his military career, and worked on Operation Red Flag.
He was medically discharged from the Air Force and struggled with PTSD after being injured by shrapnel from a roadside bomb in south-central Asia. He also suffered other health issues following his time in the military.
Four years later, he was diagnosed with late-onset type 1 diabetes, and was forced to amputate his leg above the knee after developing a blood clot and sepsis. He showed viewers his prosthetic leg during the episode.
Nathanael’s rugby club Liverpool Tritons RUFC, where he was a coach, announced his passing with a touching statement. It said: “It is with deep sadness that Liverpool Tritons RUFC announces the passing of our dear friend, former player, and coach, Nathanael Hill – known to many simply as Nate.
“More than his achievements in the game, Nate will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humour, and the unwavering support he showed to teammates, new players, and friends alike. His loss will be felt deeply across the club and far beyond.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Nate’s family, loved ones, and all those whose lives he touched. He will be sorely missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace, Nate.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
