Morning Live presenters Helen Skelton and Gethin Jones paid tribute to Dame Esther Rantzen following her death at the age of 86. The pair took a moment on the BBC programme to reflect on the life of the late broadcaster and campaigner.
It was announced on September 30 that Dame Esther had died after battling terminal lung cancer. The BBC stars mentioned that Dame Esther's daughter, Rebecca Wilcox, is a friend and colleague of theirs, as she often appears on the show as a regular contributor.
Hearts go out to family
Helen told Morning Live viewers that their 'hearts go out' to Rebecca and her siblings Joshua and Miriam. Her co-star Gethin explained how Esther had many fans on Morning Live.
He added, 'She became part of our family on the show', as he highlighted that Dame Esther 'paved the way' for shows like theirs, reports Wales Online.
Legacy honoured on air
The hosts told BBC viewers they would be honouring Esther's life and her remarkable legacy. A heartfelt tribute aired on Morning Live, featuring highlights from her illustrious career, with Gethin describing her as a 'trailblazing presenter'.
The presenters discussed the statement issued by Rebecca and her siblings, with Gethin describing it as 'perfect' as he praised the 'beautiful words' shared about Esther. In the statement, her children referred to Esther as 'our sunshine' as they stated she'd always be remembered by them for her 'endless capacity for joy' and 'her ability to comfort every heartache'.
Tributes from the showbiz world
Since the news of her death, tributes have been flooding in from those in the showbiz world, including Dame Elaine Paige, who said on Instagram: "So very sad to hear of the death of Esther Rantzen. A great broadcaster, journalist and campaigner."
"Her Childline, the confidential counselling service for young people in distress, helped so many children and her Silverline was aimed at older people suffering loneliness and isolation. Esther also fought to the end for assisted dying, but was unsuccessful. Rest in peace, dear Esther."
Anton Du Beke added: "I'm deeply saddened to hear about the passing of the wonderful Esther Rantzen. We first met when we partnered each other in the second series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2004 and remained firm friends ever since."
"I was also lucky enough to have the benefit of her wisdom as she became a valued mentor to me when I started out in television. Her breadth of knowledge and passion is unrivalled, a forerunner for women on television, the ultimate breaker of the glass ceiling. Esther had an extraordinary career - what an extraordinary woman and an extraordinary friend. She will be greatly missed, and my sincere thoughts are with her family."
Morning Live is available to watch weekdays on BBC One from 9:30am.
