Veteran broadcaster Dermot Murnaghan died peacefully at his north London home on July 11, 2026, at the age of 68, following a period of illness with prostate cancer. His family announced his passing in a statement posted on X, expressing their gratitude for the medical teams who cared for him and the many messages of goodwill he received since his diagnosis.
Family Statement and Tributes
In the statement, his family said: "It is with great sadness that the family of Dermot Murnaghan announces that he passed away at home in north London earlier this morning (July 11) at the age of 68 following a period of illness with prostate cancer. He died peacefully with his family at his side." They thanked the medical teams for their sensitivity and compassion, and noted that Murnaghan had campaigned for prostate cancer screening after his diagnosis. The funeral will be a small family ceremony, with a memorial service at St Bride's Church, Fleet Street, later this year.
Career and Campaigning
Murnaghan, a former presenter for BBC, ITV, Sky, and Channel 4 News, revealed his stage 4 prostate cancer diagnosis in June 2025. He used his platform to urge men over 50 and those in high-risk groups to get tested and to campaign for routine NHS prostate screening. In his announcement, he said he was "responding positively to excellent treatment" and felt well, supported by his wife, family, and close friends.
Impact and Legacy
Murnaghan's advocacy highlighted the importance of early detection. His family requested that those wishing to remember him consider supporting Prostate Cancer UK, Prostate Cancer Research, and North London Hospice. His death marks the loss of a respected journalist and dedicated campaigner for cancer awareness.
