Lorraine Kelly has spoken about a bittersweet 'new beginning' following the death of her father John in January at age 84. The ITV presenter, 66, said the tragedy brought her closer to her brother Graham, who is now spending more time in Scotland after decades in the Far East.
Family bonds strengthened through grief
In an interview with Saga Magazine, Kelly explained how supporting each other during her father's health battle deepened their relationship. 'When dad wasn't well, it brought us closer, supporting each other. It's been a tough time, but the conversations you have with your relatives that you wouldn't have had otherwise are amazing, you talk about the past and then the wedding [her daughter Rosie's] - that's the new beginning.'
John Kelly died after falling on an icy path near his home. At the time, Lorraine told fans he had been 'in poor health', though his death still came as a shock.
Still reaching for the phone
Kelly admitted she still finds herself speaking about her father as if he were alive. 'It's weird. When something massive is happening, your hand still goes to your phone.' She recalled wanting to share the excitement of NASA's Artemis II moon mission with him. 'Dad is - I keep speaking about him in the present tense - really into space. When Artemis II flew around the moon, I wanted to say, 'Are you watching this? It's amazing'. Then you realise he's not there.'
New chapter with family and creativity
Kelly's daughter Rosie is getting married in Scotland next month, with Graham expected to attend. The presenter has also cherished time with her granddaughter Billie, born in 2024. Recent cuts to her ITV show, now airing for 30 minutes instead of an hour on a seasonal basis, have freed up more time for family.
With her new schedule, Kelly is planning her third novel. 'I've got so many ideas. I get the most joy from my granddaughter, but now I've found the thing in my life that gives me the most creative joy.'
She previously co-hosted the podcast What If? with Rosie from 2021 to 2025, but admitted it was 'quite difficult' for her daughter to commit as a new mum. Kelly hasn't ruled out bringing it back.
Lorraine airs weekdays from 9.30am on ITV and ITVX.
