Television presenters Kirstie Allsopp and Phil Spencer have shared moving tributes following the death of a participant from their popular Channel 4 property show, Love It or List It.
A Moving On-Screen Tribute
The sad news was revealed during the broadcast of an episode on Thursday, 15 January 2026. A tribute card displayed at the end of the programme informed viewers of the passing of guest Richard Curtis. The message, which read "In Loving Memory of Richard Curtis", also encouraged the audience to get tested for prostate cancer.
A statement from the show's production company, Raise The Roof Productions, expressed their sorrow. "Kirstie, Phil and all at Raise The Roof Productions were deeply saddened to learn of Richard's passing," it said. "We'd like to send our deepest and heartfelt condolences to Karol and the rest of the family."
Richard and Karol's Story
The episode featured Richard, 67, and his partner Karol from St Osyth, Essex. The couple, who bonded over a shared love of rock and roll dancing eight years prior, had purchased a three-bedroom bungalow near Clacton-on-Sea 18 months before filming.
Their move was prompted by Richard's health. He explained on the show that he was diagnosed with locally advanced prostate cancer shortly after his 60th birthday. A severe reaction to medication meant he could no longer work, and the couple needed a single-storey home for practical care reasons.
During filming, Richard was undergoing hormone therapy, which later switched to chemotherapy. "I'm six weeks into my treatment, I've still got another four and a half months," he said during the episode, demonstrating remarkable resilience. "In life, if something goes wrong, you either put up with it, get on or you give up on life, and we don't give up on life."
Fan Reaction and Lasting Legacy
Viewers were deeply affected by the tribute aired at the episode's conclusion, taking to social media to share their condolences and memories.
One fan wrote on social media: "I had a bad feeling this would happen as I watched through the episode. So sad." Another poignant tribute referenced a memorable moment from the show: "Sincere condolences. Such a lovely couple. I will forever count the kitchen cabinets I see in his memory."
Others wondered about the future of the bungalow, which Karol had wanted to sell while Richard wished to stay. One viewer suggested it would be a "lovely gesture" for the Love It or List It team to help Karol complete any unfinished renovations.
In their final words on the episode, Kirstie Allsopp stated: "Very sadly, only seven months since Phil and I last saw them, Karol let us know that Richard had died." Phil Spencer added: "We send love, and want to say thank you from the bottom of our hearts for sharing your story with us."
The episode showcased the couple renovating their home, adding kitchen storage and new flooring, with Richard looking forward to a time when he could relax without the burden of unfinished tasks. His story and the show's subsequent tribute have now brought significant attention to the importance of prostate cancer awareness.
