Kate Garraway announced with a heavy heart that her beloved husband Derek Draper, 56, has died following a three-year health battle.
“I’m sad to have to tell you all that my darling husband Derek has passed away,” the Good Morning Britain posted on Instagram on Friday morning to announce his death.
“As some of you may know he has been critically ill following a cardiac arrest in early December which, because of the damage inflicted by Covid in March 2020, led to further complications.
“Derek was surrounded by his family in his final days and I was by his side holding his hand throughout the last long hours and when he passed.”
Derek has been in need of 24-hour care for years after contracting coronavirus in March 2020 when the illness was relatively new in the UK.
Kate continued: “I have so much more to say, and of course I will do so in due course, but for now I just want to thank all the medical teams who fought so hard to save him and to make his final moments as comfortable and dignified as possible.
“Sending so much love and thanks to all of you who have so generously given our family so much support. Rest gently and peacefully now Derek, my love, I was so lucky to have you in my life.”
Not long after Kate shared the heartbreaking post, Alison and Dermot paid tribute to Derek on Friday’s instalment of This Morning.
“Kate has just posted this as a tribute,” Alison began before Dermot shared a part of the message shared on Instagram.
Alison added: “We just want to say that all of us here at This Morning are sending our love to you Kate – and of course, Darcey and Billy.” Darcey and Billy are Kate and Derek’s two children.
This Morning viewers were left heartbroken by the news of Derek’s death, with many flocking to Twitter to share their condolences.
Paul shared: “#ThisMorning Very sad news about Derek Draper. Prayers to his family.”
Yuri added: “Oh poor Derek. Heartbreaking for Kate and the kids #ThisMorning.”
A third viewer added: I’m so sorry for your loss Kate Garraway and my heart breaks for Darcy and Billy. May Derek rest peacefully. #thismorning.”
Another fan, named Sue, said in light of her followers: “Aw how sad for them #thismorning.”
This Morning continues on Monday at 10am on ITV and ITVX.
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