Following his tragic passing earlier today, Kate Garraway took to social media to express her condolences to her “love friend” and “journalist hero” John Stapleton.
Kate Garraway was one of the first celebrities to post a tribute following the death of her ‘dear friend’ John Stapleton, who died earlier today. The late news presenter was 79 at the time of his death following a battle with Parkinson’s disease.
The presenter’s career spanned almost five decades and was known for news programmes including Newsnight, Panorama and GMTV’s News Hour. Within his career he covered the war in Kosovo, four US elections and the iconic funeral of Pope John Paul II in Rome.
His agent confirmed his death by stating that John had pneumonia-related Parkinson’s disease. His son Nick and daughter-in-law Lisa have always supported him, and John passed away peacefully this morning in the hospital.
And his famous pals and former coworkers eluded social media to express their affection for the journalist right away.
One person in particular was Kate Garraway who posted a throwback picture of the pair during their time presenting GMTV.
She wrote, “Absolutely devastated to learn of the passing of my dear friend and journalistic hero John Stapleton.” The ultimate gentleman and a rock solid broadcaster. His work dates back to the Yorkshire Post’s cub reporter days.
She continued, “On his first day alone in the office, he received a call from the police that they were beginning to search the moors for the bodies of murdered children.” He arrived at the scene of one of our country’s most heinous crimes less than an hour later.
Kate continued, “Others will speak testimony to his incredible career better than I do, and I hope they do, but all I can say is that he was a most generous copartner, always lifting up those he was with, never crushing or ramming those he knew better (which he did),” down their throat, never assuming any responsibility, and always fair, truthful, and honorable.
No one told a story in the pub better than John, she said as she finished her tribute. “Huge fun too. He won’t be seen like that again. Thinking of Nick and all those who knew and loved him, Nick.
Good Morning Britain host Susanna Reid closely followed Kate as she took to X to pay her condolences.
She said: “So so sad to hear of John Stapleton’s death. He was a legend in broadcasting, the consummate pro and always good-humoured and gracious to work with. A huge part of GMB’s story and television history. Sending love to John’s family.”
The late star’s girlfriend, Nicky Campbell, also shared a picture of him and said “he’s got some respect.” He expressed his sadness, “. For many years, John Stapleton and I worked together on Central Weekend Live.
He continued, “He was a broadcasting giant, a kind friend, a kind, wise, and very funny man.” Effortless, at ease, and sharp. A velvet glove with a steel handle. To all those who loved him, my condolences. There are numerous. Please rest in peace, my friend.
Presenter Gabby Roslin took to Instagram and described him as a “good, kind, caring man.” She wrote: “John Stapleton was a good, kind, caring man. My love and thoughts are with his family. John has a proper twinkle in his eye.”
Nick, a son Nick, and his late wife Lynn Fauld Wood, John left behind. In an interview on BBC Morning Live from October 1, John revealed that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
He said at the time, “For the better part of 50 years, speaking is how I’ve made my living.” Sometimes it’s very frustrating, especially when someone keeps saying, “Sorry, what did you say? ” And you must constantly repeat yourself.
He continued, “I’m a fairly sane person about the possibility that this will get worse.” What purpose does it serve to be negative, I try to stay positive?
The well-known newscaster also revealed that his grandmother and mother also had the same illness.
READ MORE: ‘I opened Avant’s £99 beauty advent calendar full of award-winning skincare worth £935’
Source: Mirror
Leave a Reply