In a poignant moment on Thursday evening's edition of The One Show, presenter Alex Jones delivered an emotional tribute to fellow BBC star Andy Kershaw, following the announcement of his death at the age of 66. The programme, which also featured guests Ross Kemp, Jessie Ware, and Kiell Smith-Bynoe, concluded with Jones taking a dedicated segment to honour the former Radio 1 DJ and Live Aid presenter.
A Solemn Farewell to a Broadcasting Legend
Andy Kershaw's passing was confirmed by his family on Thursday evening, marking the end of a battle with cancer that had been publicly disclosed in January, leaving him unable to walk. His sister Liz, herself a notable figure in broadcasting, expressed her grief on social media, stating, "Thank you for all your messages of affection for our Andrew and kindness today. I've lost my best friend." This personal loss resonated deeply within the BBC community, prompting Jones to address it on air.
Alex Jones's Heartfelt Words
As the show drew to a close, Alex Jones somberly announced, "Before we go, we wanted to take a moment to mention today's sad news that DJ Andy Kershaw has died." She highlighted his significant contributions, noting, "He was best known for Radio 1 and Live Aid, and also presented a number of films for The One Show in the past." Jones extended condolences on behalf of the programme, adding, "Our thoughts, of course, go out to his family and friends," encapsulating the collective sentiment of mourning among colleagues and viewers alike.
Lighthearted Moments Amidst the Sadness
Earlier in the broadcast, the tone shifted to a more humorous note when Alex Jones experienced an on-air slip-up during an interview with Ross Kemp. Discussing Kemp's return to EastEnders as Grant Mitchell, Jones accidentally referred to the character as "Michelin," confusing it with the tyre manufacturer. Reacting with her head in her hands, she exclaimed, "I can't cope," while Kemp lightheartedly joked, "I'm not that big, am I?" He further quipped about still fitting into the same leather jacket from 35 years ago, easing the tension.
Ross Kemp Reflects on His Return
Recovering from the mix-up, Jones corrected herself to "The Mitchell siblings," and Kemp went on to discuss his involvement in EastEnders' poignant dementia storyline. Describing the filming process as a "rollercoaster," he praised his co-star Steve McFadden, stating, "It was a real honour to be asked to be a part of all the work they've done for the last 17 months, and Steve, in particular, I have to say, thank you, because he is a wonderful actor." Kemp emphasized McFadden's generosity and talent, noting their long-standing collaboration since joining the show decades ago.
Balancing Tribute and Entertainment
The episode of The One Show masterfully balanced moments of levity with solemn respect, reflecting the dynamic nature of live television. While the tribute to Andy Kershaw provided a heartfelt closure, the earlier segments maintained the programme's engaging and conversational style. This blend underscores the show's ability to navigate sensitive topics while keeping audiences entertained, airing weeknights at 7pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
