SAD NEWS: TalkTV presenter Russell Quirk fights TEARS on air in EMOTIONAL James Whale tribute ‘WE’RE DEVASTATED’
TalkTV presenter Russell Quirk became visibly emotional as he paid tribute to his colleague James Whale. The broadcaster d!ed today at the age of 74 following a lengthy battle with terminal cancer. Russell shared his “devastation” over his co-star’s dęąth, and announcing the news was “the hardest thing he’s ever done.” He recalled that when he started his journalism career, he did it alongside James, and that his late co-star was “delightful” to work with. Russell then spoke about reuniting with James on TalkTV and that he was asked to fill in for him as an understudy when he became unwell.
He then continued during the live stream that speaking about James’ dęąth was “not easy at all.” TalkTV officially announced James’ dęąth on social media, stating: “We are sad to announce that James Whale MBE d!ed earlier today aged 74, following a lengthy battle with cancer. As a broadcasting legend for over 50 years, James will be missed by so many at TALK and the wider News UK family.”
The broadcaster and journalist James Whale d!ed in a Kent hospice this morning. His wife Nadine told the Express: “James slipped away very gently this morning. It was a beautiful passing, and he left with a smile on his face.”
Many TalkTV fans reacted to Russell’s tribute in the comments section. One person remarked: “James Whale’s voice & wit changed radio forever, absolute legend, never forgotten.” [sic]
A second also commented: “RIP James. You will be sorely missed. To James’s family and work colleagues, we are so sorry for your loss.” A third also chimed in: “James – one of the best disruptors on telly and radio. A pioneering broadcaster, a one off, an original, a great guy. God love him – RIP and thank you.”
James Whale’s last broadcast interview was with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, and it took place in July in his back garden in Kent.
The Daily Express columnist beat kidney cancer in 2000 after being told about a 50% survival chance, but confessed five years ago that the illness had returned and it had spread to his brain, lungs and spine.
