HEARTBREAKING NEWS: BBC legend d!es aged 61 as heartbroken tributes flood in
Tributes have poured in for the esteemed star.
BBC journalist Stephen Walker has d!ed aged 61 (Image: BBC)
Acclaimed BBC NI journalist Stephen Walker has d!ed aged 61. BBC NI’s The View presenter and Stephen’s close friend Mark Carruthers shared the news on social media, writing: “So sorry to be the bearer of such bad news, but the Walker family – Katrin, Grace, ack and Gabriel – have asked me to let people know that Stephen passed away at home this morning, surrounded by people he loved and who loved him.
“He was a wonderful husband, father, brother and son, a fine journalist and author, and the very best of friends. We are all heartbroken, but grateful for his life so well and fully lived.”
Walker worked for the BBC for over 30 years, starting his career in 1989 with Radio Leeds, before moving to BBC NI in 1991. Mr Walker served as an investigative reporter on the Spotlight programme and also had roles as London correspondent and political correspondent during his tenure with the broadcaster. He reported on the final years of the Troubles, the peace process, the 1998 Good Friday Agreement and Brexit.
He was also an esteemed author, writing five books, including biographies of two pivotal figures in the Northern Ireland peace process, John Hume and David Trimble.
Tributes have poured in for the beloved journalist, as BBC NI health correspondent Marie-Louise Connolly described her “dearest friend and colleague…always put life in perspective.”
She continued: “You made us laugh in the newsroom. You loved a tunnock… you made such an impression.
“A husband, dad, son, brother, friend, colleague, journalist and Author. One of the very best. RIP my friend.”
Tributes have poured in online for the BBC legend (Image: Twitter)
Former UUP leader and UTV journalist Mike Nesbitt revealed he was “saddened to the core” upon learning of his death. He continued: “Stephen was a gent, who had a lot more to give, to his family and society.”
First Minister Michelle O’Neill conveyed her sympathies to Mr Walker’s family and friends, stating: “He was a real gentleman and a pleasure to chat with at all times.”
Justice Minister Naomi Long also issued a statement, saying she was “so very sorry to hear” the news, adding, “he’ll be sorely missed.”
