Rod Liddle, the Sunday Times and Sun columnist, has died aged 66 after a short illness, News UK has confirmed. The writer died at The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough on Sunday evening.
Liddle was associate editor of The Spectator and had previously been editor of BBC Radio 4's Today programme. He was also an author.
Family pays tribute
In a statement, his children Wilder, Tyler and Emmy expressed their shock at his passing. They said: "We're all very saddened and shocked at the sudden passing of our wonderful father. He raised us much as you might imagine, to be inquisitive, brave and always humourous."
"Even in hospital in the last few weeks, he consistently held the room and never let the awful situation show. He has left a legacy that we are all incredibly proud of, he will always be our guide on how to live an extraordinary life."
Colleagues remember a 'brilliant, fearless columnist'
Tributes have poured in from colleagues across the publications he wrote for.
Ben Taylor, editor of The Sunday Times, said: "Rod Liddle had a wonderful way with words and used his unique talent to speak for the readers, highlighting the cant and absurdity that bedevils modern life. He was also supremely entertaining and for years his column was the first that many turned to every Sunday. We will miss him desperately."
Victoria Newton, editor-in-chief of The Sun, said: "Rod was a brilliant, fearless columnist who was much loved by all at The Sun. A champion of press freedom, no topic was off-limits, and his writing – as funny as it was excoriating – was simply exceptional."
"A terrific observer of the frailties of our political class, he will be remembered for his razor sharp wit and for his huge intellect. But on The Sun floor he will also be remembered for his warmth and humour and for the belly laughs we had at his wildly entertaining lunches and dinners where he would hold court."
