Susanna Reid and Strictly Come Dancing pay tribute to Bill Turnbull after his death aged 66

Virgin Radio

1 Sep 2022, 12:20

Tributes are pouring in for Bill Turnbull following the sad news of his death aged 66.

A statement from his family confirmed the news, saying: “Following a challenging and committed fight against prostate cancer, Bill passed away peacefully at his home in Suffolk surrounded by his family on Wednesday, 31st August.”

Bill had been the face of BBC Breakfast alongside Sian Williams from 2001 to 2012, and Susanna Reid took over until 2014. 

After hearing the announcement, the Good Morning Britain host took to Twitter to share her heartfelt tribute, in which she called Bill “the kindest, funniest, most generous man in the business.”

She continued: “I feel lucky to have worked with him and he taught me everything. But above all, he was devoted to his family and I am heartbroken for them. RIP Bill. We will miss you so much.”

Meanwhile, the official Strictly Come Dancing Twitter account reshared the Waltz Bill performed in their own loving tribute to the star, who took part in the 2005 competition with Karen Hardy. 

The Twitter post was captioned: “Sending heartfelt condolences to Bill Turnbull’s family and friends. A truly brilliant broadcaster turned ballroom dancer when he joined us on series three of Strictly.”

Celebrities from across TV and radio came out to share their tributes via social media. Richard Osman said: “RIP Bill Turnbull, such a kind, intelligent man, and a wonderful presenter. How very sad.”

Former BBC Breakfast correspondent Steph McGovern wrote: “Absolutely gutted that our Bill Turnbull has passed away. A fantastic broadcaster and a brilliant friend….I learnt so much from him. And we had some cracking arguments about how you should pronounce words like ‘poor’. We all loved him #RIPBill”

Piers Morgan added: “One of the best broadcasters in Britain, and such a smart, funny, warm & generous-spirited man. Fought his illness with typical stoicism, courage and humour. Bill made presenting live TV look so effortless, which was his great talent. Such sad news.”