BBC Breakfast hosts pay tribute to 'kindest man' George Alagiah after death
BBC Breakfast aired a moving tribute to late BBC News star George Alagiah on Tuesday morning, following the sad news of his death.
It was announced on Monday that the popular and respected newsreader had died aged 67, following a nine-year battle with bowel cancer. George had discussed his health diagnosis often in recent years, and a statement confirmed on Monday that he had died peacefully surrounded by his family.
As one of the BBC's longest-serving broadcasters, he was well respected and loved by viewers but also his co-stars. On BBC Breakfast on Tuesday, hosts Jon Kay and Sally Nugent took a moment to pay tribute to the "kindest man".
Sally praised the late star, as Jon added he will be "much missed". Jon said it was "a tough time" for those in the studio and in the BBC newsroom, having lost their colleague.
BBC Breakfast hosts Jon Kay and Sally Nugent paid tribute to their fellow BBC star George Alagiah (BBC)Jon started the tribute by saying: "For so many of us over the years he was one of our longest-serving and most respected journalists."
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Sally then said: "Lots of people at home will very much feel like he was one of their friends. It would really mean so much to him when people would speak to him about his job on the six o’clock news and the reporting he did around the world. Also I have to say one of the kindest men you would ever meet."
Jon went on: "It’s been a tough time in the newsroom. So many people loved him and knew him so well. He was such an integral part of the entire BBC operation for so long. He was a top bloke and will be much missed."
A statement from Alagiah's agent Mary Greenham to the PA news agency said: "I am so terribly sorry to inform you that George Alagiah died peacefully today, surrounded by his family and loved ones.
BBC Breakfast aired a moving tribute to late BBC News star George Alagiah (BBC)"George fought until the bitter end but sadly that battle ended earlier today. George was deeply loved by everybody who knew him, whether it was a friend, a colleague or a member of the public. He simply was a wonderful human being. My thoughts are with Fran, the boys and his wider family."
Following the statement from Alagiiah's agent being released, BBC Director-General Tim Davie said: "Across the BBC, we are all incredibly sad to hear the news about George. We are thinking of his family at this time.
"George was one of the best and bravest journalists of his generation who reported fearlessly from across the world as well as presenting the news flawlessly. He was more than just an outstanding journalist, audiences could sense his kindness, empathy and wonderful humanity. He was loved by all and we will miss him enormously."
BBC Breakfast airs weekdays at 6am on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
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