Susanna Reid's Emotional Tribute to Late Co-Star Bill Turnbull on Good Morning Britain
During Wednesday's episode of Good Morning Britain, host Susanna Reid delivered a poignant and heartfelt tribute to her late former co-star, Bill Turnbull, which left her visibly emotional. The segment featured a nostalgic clip from their time together on BBC Breakfast, sparking memories and reflections on Turnbull's life and career.
A Nostalgic Reunion and Tribute
Susanna Reid, 55, and her co-presenter Ed Balls, 59, were joined by guest Dr. Sian Williams, 61, who also previously co-hosted BBC Breakfast with Bill Turnbull. As viewers were shown a brief archival clip of Turnbull and Dr. Williams presenting the show, Susanna could be heard saying, 'It makes me emotional just to see him there!' This moment highlighted the deep connection and fond memories shared among the former colleagues.
Susanna Reid and Bill Turnbull worked together on BBC Breakfast from 2001 to 2014, when Susanna moved to ITV to join Good Morning Britain. Turnbull remained with the BBC programme for an additional two years before retiring. Tragically, he passed away in August 2022 at the age of 66, after being diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2018.
Remembering Bill Turnbull's Legacy
Following his death, tributes poured in from across the broadcasting world. On BBC Breakfast, Charlie Stayt announced the sad news, stating, 'Our former colleague, former Breakfast presenter Bill Turnbull has died. He had been diagnosed with cancer in 2017.' Naga Munchetty then read a statement from Turnbull's wife, Sesi, which shared, 'Our lovely Billy died yesterday evening almost five years after being diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer. The last week of his life was very special - as the whole family was with him and we shared some wonderful moments.'
Susanna Reid also paid tribute at the time, expressing, 'I was absolutely knocked sideways yesterday by the loss of Bill.' She fondly recalled his humour, saying, 'He was such a funny person to be around... and I don't want to sound sombre talking about him because he had such a sense of humour. I remember when he presented on this programme, we called him a 'saucepot' because he definitely had a way with the double entendres, he really did. He was delightful company.'
Light-Hearted Moments on Good Morning Britain
In contrast to the emotional tribute, the episode also featured lighter segments. Streamer and I'm A Celebrity winner AngryGinge, 24, joined the show alongside Loose Women star GK Barry, 26, and former England and Manchester City captain Steph Houghton, 37, to discuss Soccer Aid. Susanna humorously suggested Ed Balls for the event, prompting AngryGinge to cheekily ask Ed, 'Right, and how old are you now mate?' after Ed mentioned a childhood trial for Wolves. This banter brought laughter to the studio, even from the camera crew.
AngryGinge praised Soccer Aid as an amazing event for meeting childhood heroes and raising money for charity, with tickets on sale for the 31st of May. Good Morning Britain continues to air weekdays from 6am on ITV1 and ITVX, blending serious discussions with entertaining moments.
