Wish You Were Here…? host Judith Chalmers dies aged 90 as tributes pour in
She had been living with Alzheimer's in recent years
Judith Chalmers, the legendary host of travel show Wish You Were Here…? has died at the age of 90, her heartbroken family have announced.
The presenter started presenting ITV’s much-loved holiday programme in 1974, and continued in the role until 2003.
Her family revealed that she died earlier this week, after spending her final years living with Alzheimer’s disease.
Death of Wish You Were Here…? legend Judith Chalmers announced
Earlier today (May 22), the death of Judith Chalmers was announced by her devastated family. She was 90 years old.
They said that she died peacefully at home on Thursday evening, surrounded by her family, after living with Alzheimer’s in her final years.
Judith is survived by long-term husband Neil Durden-Smith and their children – daughter Emma and her TV presenter son Mark Durden-Smith.
Judith’s family said that her health had been declining for some time. However, she become seriously ill in recent weeks. They added that this gave Judith’s family time to be together with her.
“After living an extraordinary life that involved over 60 years in broadcasting and countless adventures all over the globe, Judy sadly passed away last night, surrounded by the family she loved so much after suffering with Alzheimer’s for some years,” a statement said.
Don't miss a single story! Add us as a Preferred Source in Google for all your television news
It added: “We will miss her greatly but she leaves behind a giant suitcase of the happiest of memories.”
From Come Dancing to queen of Wish You Were Here…?
Judith became a household name when she presented ballroom dancing competition Come Dancing for the BBC from 1961 to 1965 before moving to ITV in the early 1970s.
There, she fronted the hugely popular holiday programme from 1974 until 2003 and became one of the most recognisable faces on British television.
Tributes to a TV legend
Social media users shared their sadness alongside fond memories of Judith as the news broke.
One commented: “Lovely lady. When we were on our honeymoon we shared a very small boat with her and her family in St Lucia. RIP Judith.”
Another added: “It’s a name still used, when you laugh at your mate going on their 6th holiday of the year, affectionately: ‘Get you, Judith Chalmers.’ RIP.”
A third commented: “Her last voyage. Such a sad passing. Bon voyage, Judith.” “A life well lived and she shared her experiences with us all. RIP JC,” another fan commented.
“Such sad news about Judith Chalmers,” said another, adding: “She was a true television icon. May she rest in peace.”
Read more: Race Across The World winners revealed after tense race to the finish line
