Escape to the Country host dies aged 50
<p>British TV presenter Jonnie Irwin has passed away aged 50 following a battle with terminal cancer. </p>
<p>Irwin was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2020, when the disease spread from his lungs to his brain. </p>
<p>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. </p>
<p>The TV presenter rose to fame in the UK for his roles on shows including <em>A Place in the Sun </em>and <em>Escape to the Country</em>. </p>
<p>A statement was shared to Instagram on Friday announcing his death, where he was described as "a truly remarkable soul." </p>
<p>"It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie’s passing," the statement began. </p>
<p>"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."</p>
<p>“At this time, we kindly ask for the privacy of Jonnie’s family as they navigate through this profound loss," the statement continued. </p>
<p>“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.”</p>
<p>“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.”</p>
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<p>Following his death, BBC have paid tribute to the fallen host and described him as an “extraordinary man and wonderful presenter”.</p>
<p>“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.</p>
<p>“More recently, he did some truly inspirational reports for <em>Morning Live</em> about his illness, tackling taboos around end-of-life care and wonderfully demonstrating the limitless positivity that he brought to everything he did.”</p>
<p>Irwin’s longtime co-star Jasmine Harman, also shared a tribute on Instagram.</p>
<p>“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.” </p>
<p>Irwin is survived by his wife Jessica and their three children, Rex, five and three-year-old twins Rafa and Cormac.</p>
<p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>
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