Good Morning Britain host Susanna Reid choked back tears as she read out Kate Garraway's heartfelt message of thanks to the public following the death of her husband Derek Draper. Draper, a former lobbyist turned psychologist, died on Friday at the age of 56.
In a note shared via her GMB colleagues, Garraway expressed gratitude for the support she and her family have received. “Thank you so much for all the wonderful messages… It really does mean so much to me, Darcey, Billy and all of Derek’s family,” she wrote.
Garraway, who married Draper in 2005, chronicled his long battle with Covid-19 in ITV documentaries. He spent 13 months in hospital after falling ill in March 2020 and required daily care. She was made an MBE in 2022 for her broadcasting, journalism and charity work.
Reid and co-host Richard Madeley described the message as “classic Kate,” noting that in deeply painful circumstances she still thought of others. Tributes to Draper and support for Garraway have been paid by fellow GMB stars, former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair and Sir Elton John.
Garraway plans to take a break from her TV and radio roles but intends to return to work in the future, according to the PA news agency.
