What’s the story about George Alagiah?
George Alagiah OBE, the BBC newsreader, died on Monday, July 24, 2023, at the age of 67. He had been battling bowel cancer for nine years. People are mourning his loss and paying tribute to his life and career.
Alagiah was born in Sri Lanka in 1955 and grew up in Ghana and the UK. He joined the BBC in 1989 and worked as a foreign correspondent for decades, reporting on major news events from around the world. He was also a presenter on BBC News at Six and of GMT on BBC World News.
Alagiah was a popular and respected figure on British television. He was known for his calm and informative presenting style, and he was always able to connect with viewers. He was also an enthusiastic advocate for cancer charities, and he raised awareness of the disease through his own experiences.
Alagiah’s death is a sad loss for the BBC and for the UK. He was a talented journalist and a wonderful presenter, and people will remember his warmth, his wit, and his commitment to public service.
Tributes
Here are three of the tributes paid to George Alagiah.
- George was ” that rare thing – a first-rate journalist and an all-round lovely human being” – Fiona Bruce, BBC News presenter
- “Tributes will rightly be paid to a fantastic journalist and brilliant broadcaster – but George was the most decent, principled, kindest, most honourable man I have ever worked with. What a loss.” – Jon Sopel, former BBC correspondent
- “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.” – Tim Davie, Director-General of the BBC
All thoughts are with George Alagiah’s family and friends at this difficult time.
Why should I care about this story?
George Alagiah was a well-known and respected figure in the UK. He was a familiar face on television for decades, and he was also a popular and respected journalist. His death is a sad loss for the UK, and it is understandable to be interested in learning more about him and paying tribute to his life and career.
In addition, Alagiah’s death is a reminder of the importance of cancer awareness. He was a vocal advocate for cancer charities, and he raised awareness of the disease through his own experiences. His death is a reminder that cancer is a serious disease that can affect anyone, and it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms so that medical staff can diagnose and treat it early.
Finally, Alagiah’s death is a reminder of the importance of public service. He was a committed journalist who dedicated his career to informing and educating the public. His death is a loss to the BBC and to the world of journalism, but his legacy will live on.
Below are specific reasons why you might care about George Alagiah’s death. You may have been:
- Fans of his work as a newsreader or foreign correspondent.
- Inspired by his personal battle with cancer.
- Touched by his work as an advocate for cancer charities.
- Simply interested in learning more about a well-known and respected figure in the UK.
No matter the reason that you care, George Alagiah’s death is a sad loss for the UK, and people will remember his legacy for years to come.
Subscribe
Get the biggest stories direct to your inbox, along with why they matter.