Dermot Murnaghan, a veteran broadcaster known for his calm and authoritative presence on major UK news networks, has died at the age of 68. His family announced his passing, which came a year after he revealed he was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer. He died peacefully at his home in North London with his wife, Maria Keegan, and their four children by his side.

Murnaghan’s career spanned several decades and included work at all the major British broadcasters. He began at Channel 4 before moving to ITV, where he gained prominence during significant events such as breaking the news of the death of Diana, Princess of Wales in 1997. At ITV, he presented flagship programs including The Big Story, News at Ten, and the ITV Evening News. In 2002, he joined the BBC, anchoring BBC Breakfast alongside Natasha Kaplinsky, as well as the BBC News at Six and Ten. He also hosted entertainment programs such as Treasure Hunt and the long-running quiz show Eggheads.

In 2007, Murnaghan became a key presenter at Sky News, where he remained until 2023. During his tenure, he covered a range of major global events, including wars, elections, and the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022. He also hosted several documentaries, including Crimes That Shook Britain and Killer Britain, and recently presented the Legends of News podcast.

Colleagues and public figures paid tribute to Murnaghan’s professionalism and integrity. Jonathan Levy, executive editor at Sky News, described him as a “formidable interviewer” who was never performative and always focused on asking the right questions. ITV presenter Susanna Reid recalled working with him at BBC Breakfast, noting his intelligence, charm, and ability to connect with viewers and guests alike. BBC Radio 4’s Nick Robinson praised him as “someone you instinctively trusted,” while political editor Beth Rigby expressed deep sadness at his passing.

Following his diagnosis, Murnaghan became an active campaigner for prostate cancer awareness, urging men, particularly those over 50 or in high-risk groups, to get tested. He acknowledged publicly that he had delayed getting screened himself because he felt well. Former Prime Minister David Cameron highlighted Murnaghan’s clear and straightforward approach to spreading awareness, saying it would have saved lives.

Murnaghan was born in Devon and grew up in Northern Ireland. An Arsenal fan, he was married to Maria Keegan for 37 years, and they had three daughters and a son. In a statement, his family thanked the medical teams who cared for him with compassion, as well as the many supporters who sent messages over the past year.