Dermot Murnaghan, the former Sky News anchor and veteran broadcaster, has died at the age of 68 following a period of illness with prostate cancer, his family confirmed on Saturday. He passed away peacefully at his home in North London on July 11, surrounded by his family.
Career Highlights
Murnaghan was best known for his 15-year tenure as a lead anchor for Sky News, where he became a familiar face to millions of viewers. Over his five-decade career in journalism and broadcasting, he also presented news for Channel 4, the ITV Evening News, and the BBC News at Six and Ten. His work spanned some of the most prestigious news programmes in the UK.
Cancer Diagnosis and Advocacy
Last year, Murnaghan publicly announced his diagnosis of stage four prostate cancer, describing it as "incurable but not untreatable." Following his diagnosis, he became a vocal advocate for prostate cancer awareness, campaigning for better screening programmes. His family noted that he received "many, many kind messages of goodwill" over the past year, which they deeply appreciated.
Family Statement
In a statement posted on his X account, his family said: "It is with great sadness that the family of Dermot Murnaghan announces that he passed away at home in North London earlier this morning (11th July) at the age of 68 following a period of illness with prostate cancer. He died peacefully with his family at his side." They thanked the medical teams who cared for him with "sensitivity and extraordinary compassion" and requested that those wishing to remember him consider supporting Prostate Cancer UK, Prostate Cancer Research, and North London Hospice.
Funeral and Memorial Plans
In accordance with Murnaghan's wishes, his funeral will be a small family ceremony. A memorial service for friends and colleagues will be held later this year at St Bride's Church on Fleet Street, known as the Journalists' Church.
