Richard Madeley fought back tears whilst remembering his dear friend during Thursday’s Good Morning Britain. The 69 year old presenter was occupying his regular position on ITV’s breakfast show alongside Kate Garraway when they were speaking with comedian Stephen Mangan regarding his Landscape Artist of the Year programme.
Just as the conversation was concluding, Richard felt compelled to acknowledge the death of a mutual colleague who had collaborated with them in television. He started: “I don’t wanna finish this interview without paying tribute to a very good friend of both of us. Stuart Prebble.” He then paused, appearing to struggle to speak as he became emotional. Managing to continue, he said: “Who, um, was the boss of both programmes.” Sympathising as Richard became tearful, Kate said: “He was very close to you as well.”
“I knew Stuart for 50 years,” said Richard.
“We last met at his funeral,” he mentioned to Stephen. “We did,” Stephen confirmed, noting that Richard had delivered a eulogy at the service. “He spoke really beautifully as well,” he added.
“Well, I was speaking of a very beautiful man,” said Richard, battling tears. “And we miss him very much. But I just thought it was something more to say.”
The broadcaster remained visibly affected as the conversation with Stephen concluded and he and Kate were due to transition to their subsequent segment, prompting him to turn towards her and enquire whether she could handle it.
“Right, um, do you want to do this next bit?” he asked the presenter. “Richard, yes, I think I should,” she responded.
“Lovely, lovely person you are. Lovely person.”
Stuart Prebble passed away last year aged 74. He had worked extensively in television, holding roles at both ITV and the BBC.
He had also authored several books, including A Power in the Land, and The Lazarus File, and served as executive producer and writer for the series Grumpy Old Men.
GMB airs weekdays at 6am on ITV1.