An emotional Naga Munchetty fought back the tears while learning of BBC newsreader George Alagiah’s death live on air.

It was announced today (24 July) that the OBE-credited journalist has sadly died at the age of 67.

Alagiah worked for the BBC for over 20 years and was always popular with viewers.

BBC

A statement from his agent read: "I am so terribly sorry to inform you that George Alagiah died peacefully today, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

"George fought until the bitter end but sadly that battle ended earlier today.

"George was deeply loved by everybody who knew him, whether it was a friend, a colleague or a member of the public.

"He simply was a wonderful human being.

"My thoughts are with Fran, the boys and his wider family."

The BBC News presenter was diagnosed with stage four (advanced) bowel cancer - which had spread to his liver and lymph nodes - in April 2014.

His colleague Munchetty was presenting BBC Radio 5 Live earlier today when she heard of the tragic news.

BBC

The 48-year-old sounded choked up as she held back the tears when informing listeners of Alagiah’s passing.

"We’ve had the very sad news that our colleague George Alagiah, BBC presenter – you all know him – who has been living with bowel cancer since 2014 – he has since stepped back from presenting BBC News," she said.

"We’ve just heard the news he has died [aged 67]. We’ve just heard that from his agent.

"Apologies for the emotion in my voice – he was so loved in our newsroom.

"We’ve had that news, we’ll bring you more a little bit later, Rebecca apologies for the interruption, you have the rest of the sport."

PA

In June 2020, Alagiah told the Times newspaper: “My doctors have never used the word ‘chronic’ or ‘cure’ about my cancer.

“They’ve never used the word ‘terminal’ either. I’ve always said to my oncologist, ‘Tell me when I need to sort my affairs out’, and he’s not told me that, but what he did tell me is that the cancer is now in a third organ. It is in my lungs.”

A statement from BBC director-general Tim Davie also read: “Across the BBC, we are all incredibly sad to hear the news about George. We are thinking of his family at this time.

“George was one of the best and bravest journalists of his generation who reported fearlessly from across the world as well as presenting the news flawlessly.

“He was more than just an outstanding journalist, audiences could sense his kindness, empathy and wonderful humanity. He was loved by all and we will miss him enormously.”