Sky News interrupted its regular programming to announce the death of renowned journalist Rod Liddle at the age of 66. Presenter Jayne Secker delivered the news to viewers, stating that News UK had confirmed the columnist for The Sunday Times and The Sun had passed away.
Details of the announcement
Secker said: "A bit of news coming to us from the Press Association. They're reporting that News UK have announced the death of The Sunday Times and Sun columnist Rod Liddle." She added that he died after a short illness, according to News UK, and noted his work as a columnist for The Sunday Times and The Times, as well as his role as a presenter on Times Radio.
Liddle came to prominence as editor of BBC Radio 4's Today programme in 1998, later pursuing a long and distinguished career in journalism.
Tributes from family and colleagues
Secker read a statement from Liddle's three children, Wilder, Tyler, and Emmy, who expressed their shock and sadness. They said: "We're all very saddened and shocked at the sudden passing of our wonderful father. He raised us much as you might imagine, to be inquisitive, brave and always humourous." They added that even in hospital in his final weeks, he "constantly held the room and never let the awful situation show," leaving a legacy they are "incredibly proud of."
Rebekah Brooks, CEO of News UK, paid tribute, calling Liddle "an inimitable journalistic force." She said: "Everyone at News UK is deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden death of Rod Liddle. Rod was an inimitable journalistic force, brilliant, provocative, and immensely talented, who's sharp wit and uncompromising voice graced our pages and airwaves for a decade." She added that he "challenged conventional thinking and left an indelible mark on British journalism."
Career highlights
Liddle was formerly a contributor on Sky News, appearing as a regular guest on The Wrap earlier in the year. He served as associate editor of The Spectator and had previously edited the Today programme from 1998 to 2003. His books include Too Beautiful for You and The Best of Liddle Britain, and he presented BBC Two's political programme Weekend and BBC Four's The Talk Show.
