Jeremy Vine has shared a moving tribute to his friend and Channel 5 co-star Ann Widdecombe, who died on Thursday at the age of 78. The TV presenter described himself as 'devastated' in an Instagram post on Friday, remembering Widdecombe as 'very, very kind' and 'one of the most extraordinary politicians of the age'.
Vine's Personal Memories
In the video, Vine said: 'Two minutes ago, I heard the news about Ann Widdecombe. She's been so much a part of my life on Radio 2 and Channel 5. I honestly think she's just one of the most extraordinary politicians of the age. She had that cruel nickname in the 80s, Doris Karloff, and I said I thought it was terrible and she said, "I don't mind it, I used to pick up the phone and say Karloff here."'
Vine recalled Widdecombe's energy and principles, noting that whenever she appeared on his Channel 5 show, a viewer would remark that she should have been Prime Minister. He often joked with her about having another cabinet job, but she always said no, preferring to 'go back to Devon and live in that house on Dartmoor'.
Strictly Come Dancing and Kindness
Vine also reflected on Widdecombe's stint on Strictly Come Dancing with Anton du Beke, calling her 'funny'. He added: 'And she was kind, she was very, very kind. I know that she had a very austere on-screen manner... but in the end, the kindness individually was such a beautiful thing to see.'
Concluding his tribute, Vine said: 'You were true, you were true to yourself, and you were kind, and we're going to miss you so much.'
Ann Widdecombe's Legacy
Ann Widdecombe served as a Conservative MP from 1987 to 2010 and later as a Member of the European Parliament for the Brexit Party from 2019 to 2020. Her management confirmed her death in a statement: 'It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, DSG. We send our deepest condolences to Ann's family and friends. We ask that the family's wish not to be contacted at this sad time is respected.'
Tributes have also come from Nigel Farage, Piers Morgan, Kemi Badenoch, and many others.
