02 February 2024 , 23:43
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Jonnie Irwin made a final TV appearance to share an update on his home renovations before his tragic death aged 50.
The A Place In The Sun presenter's family shared the devastating news on social media on Friday. He had spent the last three years living with a terminal lung cancer diagnosis. Jonnie also fronted BBC property shows Escape to the Country and To Buy or Not to Buy In 2022, after publicly disclosing his cancer diagnosis, Jonnie accused A Place in the Sun producers of axing him as presenter after 18 years due to his terminal illness.
He later took a step back from his TV roles due to his illness, but Jonnie delighted fans with a rare appearance on BBC's Morning Live last year. In a pre-recorded segment, he was seen participating in a home renovation programme, sharing tips on how to add value to homes. He revealed his plans for the house he was renovating, intending to leave it to his children after his diagnosis.
Jonnie presented a segment about home renovations for Morning Live (BBC)Morning Live hosts, Rav Wilding and Gaby Roslin, took a moment to wish Jonnie a happy birthday. Gaby said: "We just have to say a big happy birthday to Jonnie, he's going to be 50 this Saturday. Have the most wonderful time Jonnie." Jonnie was given six months to live after his terminal cancer diagnosis in 2020, but he defied expectations. Initially diagnosed with lung cancer, Jonnie revealed in November 2022 that it had spread to his brain.
A heartbreaking statement was shared on social media announcing Jonnie's passing, praising his "unwavering strength and courage". The statement read: "It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie's passing. 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."
Jonnie Irwin will record video messages for wife and kids to watch after he dies
The family asked for privacy during this difficult time, adding: "Their grief is immeasurable, and your thoughts, prayers, and support are deeply appreciated." The statement concluded: "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."
He leaves behind his wife Jessica and their three young boys (@Jonnieirwintv/Instagram)His friends and co-stars have since paid tribute with A Place In The Sun's Jasmine Harman writing: "My heart is broken," alongside a broken heart emoji. His co-star, Scarlette Douglas took to her own Instagram to share a snap of Jonnie filming on location, writing: "May the sun always shine on you, Jonnie. RIP." Danni Menzies shared a quote to her Instagram Stories, reading: "When we die, I want to believe that we are scattered throughout all the people that have ever loved us.
"That we will continue to exist in them. In their bloodstream. For generations. Gor lifetimes." Writing alongside this, she added: "You will Jonnie xxx." A Place In The Sun also shared their own tribute to the presenter with a black-and-white photograph. They said: "We are heartbroken. Jonnie was a much-loved part of the A Place In The Sun family for more than 18 years - he brought joy, with and bundles of energy to the show. We will miss him terribly. Our thoughts are with Jess and the boys and the rest of the family."
Jonnie leaves behind his wife Jessica, who he married in September 2016, and their three young children; Rex, four, and three-year-old twins Rafa and Cormac. The A Place in the Sun star admitted the 'hardest thing' he's ever had to do was tell his wife he had been diagnosed with terminal cancer just two months after she gave birth to their twins.
The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.