BBC Radio 4 Today presenter Edward Stourton has died at the age of 68 after an incurable prostate cancer diagnosis. The journalist and broadcaster passed away on Saturday, July 18, surrounded by his family, the BBC confirmed.
Career Spanning More Than Four Decades
Stourton joined the BBC as Paris correspondent in 1988, later moving to ITN as diplomatic editor before returning to the BBC to present the One O'Clock News on BBC One. His work also included programs such as Panorama, Assignment, Correspondent, and a phone-in show on Radio 4.
Tributes From Colleagues
Radio 4 controller Mohit Bakaya described Stourton as an "absolutely outstanding broadcaster" who "brought intelligence, authority and an extraordinary hinterland to everything he did." Bakaya added: "When Ed was behind the mic, whether on Sunday or the various news programmes he regularly presented for Radio 4, you felt you understood the world that little bit better. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time."
James Naughtie, Stourton's friend and former Today co-host, praised his "warm intelligence and wit," calling him "one of the best colleagues." Naughtie said: "His warm intelligence and wit were admired and enjoyed by generations with whom he worked. And as a friend, he was always a rock of support and kindness. His dignity and courage through his illness were an inspiration to everyone who knew him. He was, simply, much-loved."
Legacy of Excellence
The BBC's interim news chief Jonathan Munro said it was "far too soon to lose Ed." He recalled: "I worked as his producer when he was ITN's diplomatic editor – unflappable then and ever after. Many years later, I was listening to his superb analysis of the new Pope for the BBC - another of his many areas of expertise. Not many broadcasters can present Today, BBC One's One O'clock News, The World at One and Sunday - but he did. He leaves a huge gap."
Cancer Diagnosis and Memoir
Stourton revealed he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2014, a decade before the release of his memoir Confessions. While he underwent treatment, he was later told the cancer had become incurable. He is survived by his family.
