BBC broadcaster Gabby Logan and her family are mourning the loss of their father, former Welsh international footballer Terry Yorath, who has died at the age of 75.
A Sudden Exit From Match of the Day
The news follows Logan's abrupt departure from presenting BBC Match of the Day on Wednesday night. The 52-year-old presenter was replaced just 20 minutes into the Premier League highlights programme by broadcaster Mark Chapman, who explained she had to deal with a "family emergency."
Chapman, who had been hosting a radio show, stepped in to complete the broadcast. The show later paid its respects on social media platform X, stating: "Leeds and Wales legend Terry Yorath has passed away, aged 75." The post extended the BBC's condolences to all the family, including his daughter Gabby.
A Family's Heartfelt Tribute
In a moving statement released by Gabby Logan and her siblings, they remembered their father not as the footballing icon, but as a devoted parent. "To most he was a revered footballing hero, but to us he was Dad; a quiet, kind and gentle man," the family said.
The statement also touched on a profound family tragedy, adding: "Our hearts are broken but we take comfort knowing that he will be reunited with our brother, Daniel." Daniel, Logan's younger brother, died suddenly at the age of 15 while playing football in the garden with his father in 1992. His death was attributed to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a genetic heart condition.
A Storied Football Career
Born in Cardiff, Terry Yorath enjoyed a distinguished playing career. He earned 59 caps for Wales and was a key part of the legendary Leeds United team managed by Don Revie, helping the club win the First Division title. His legacy in the sport is firmly established as both a national and club hero.
His daughter Gabby has carved her own notable path in sports broadcasting. She took over from Gary Lineker on the flagship Match of the Day programme last year, presenting alongside Chapman and Kelly Cates. Her services to broadcasting and charity were recently recognised with an OBE in the King's New Year Honours list.
The football community and broadcasting world are united in offering sympathy to the Yorath and Logan family following their loss.
