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British TV presenter Jonnie Irwin dies aged 50

The presenter of 'A Place In The Sun' was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2020
Jack Quann
Jack Quann

20.10 2 Feb 2024


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British TV presenter Jonnie Ir...

British TV presenter Jonnie Irwin dies aged 50

Jack Quann
Jack Quann

20.10 2 Feb 2024


Share this article


British TV presenter Jonnie Irwin has died at the age of 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 on Friday, his family said: "It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie's passing.

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"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.

"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."

 

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His 'A Place In The Sun' co-presenter Jasmine Harman posted a photo on Instagram of the two of them together, saying, "The world is a little darker today without you".

"Your cheeky-chappy persona and naughty sense of humour always broke the ice and made people laugh," she wrote.

"Everyone warmed to you and you had the incredible ability to connect with people, making them feel like they'd known you for years.

"Professionally, you were well suited to life in front of the lens. But for years, you always talked about wanting to settle down and become a dad.

"Your wish was granted when you met Jess. Never were you happier than in your role as husband and Dad to the most awesome three boys - you are a legend."

'Make the most of every day'

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

He had been open about his illness since his diagnosis in the hope of inspiring others to "make the most of every day".

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.

Career

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

The Channel 4 show helps couples who want to find a home abroad with sun, sea and sand.

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 also featured on other property shows, such as 'I Escaped To The Country' and 'Escape To The Country' on the BBC, and 'Dream Lives For Sale' on Sky.

The 'Country' property series is set in the UK and sees families try to find their dream home in rural locations with the help of experts.

Irwin also starred in Channel 4's 'Renovation Game', which ran for three seasons from 2011, and saw builders and designers put their fees on the line if they do not raise the property value of a house during a revamp.

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

Reporting by: IRN

Main image: Jonnie Irwin is seen in 2011. Image: Bill Stephenson / Alamy

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