Escape to the Country host dies aged 50
British TV presenter Jonnie Irwin has passed away aged 50 following a battle with terminal cancer.
Irwin was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2020, when the disease spread from his lungs to his brain.
He was initially given just six months to live, but managed to defy the odds and made his illness public after two years of keeping it a secret.
The TV presenter rose to fame in the UK for his roles on shows including A Place in the Sun and Escape to the Country.
A statement was shared to Instagram on Friday announcing his death, where he was described as "a truly remarkable soul."
"It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie’s passing," the statement began.
"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," the statement continued.
“Their grief is immeasurable, and your thoughts, prayers, and support are deeply appreciated. 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.”
Following his death, BBC have paid tribute to the fallen host and described him as an “extraordinary man and wonderful presenter”.
“He brought such warmth and fun to Escape To The Country where he was a firm favourite with not just viewers, but the production team too," head of BBC daytime Rob Unsworth said.
“More recently, he did some truly inspirational reports for Morning Live about his illness, tackling taboos around end-of-life care and wonderfully demonstrating the limitless positivity that he brought to everything he did.”
Irwin’s longtime co-star Jasmine Harman, also shared a tribute on Instagram.
“I have never admired you more than over the last few years as you’ve faced life with cancer with positivity, determination and bloody mindedness,” she wrote. “The world is a little darker today without you, but I will always smile when I think of you.”
Irwin is survived by his wife Jessica and their three children, Rex, five and three-year-old twins Rafa and Cormac.
Image: Instagram