Broadcasting legend and renowned children's campaigner Dame Esther Rantzen has died at the age of 86. As reported by The Mirror, this comes after she was diagnosed with lung cancer back in 2023.
Her passing was confirmed by her family in a statement obtained by the outlet. "Our adored mother Dame Esther Rantzen died today," they wrote. "Her legacy of compassion and understanding will live on in her charities Childline and Silverline, and through those of us who were lucky enough to love and be loved by her."
The broadcasting legend was possibly most well known for having founded the two charities. Childline, per their website, is a "a free, private and confidential service" for children to contact counselors. Silverline is a similar concept, except it is aimed at older people.
"We are grateful she is finally at rest with her beloved husband, Desmond Wilcox, but we will miss her immeasurably. She was our sunshine," they continued. "We will always remember her endless capacity for joy, her ability to comfort every heartache, her beautiful way with words and her expert guidance in all things."
The broadcasting legend was also well known in the UK for her TV work, having presented legendary TV shows like That's Life!.
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The Broadcasting Legend Released a Letter Prior to Her Passing
Rantzen, who was known in recent years to have campaigned for assisted dying, released a letter prior to her passing.
"Dear Everybody", it began. "I am so sorry I cannot send you each individual thanks for the fun, the support and the help you have been to me."
"I have been immensely lucky in the friendship and the professional advice I have had from you which has enabled me to live such a long and happy life."
She also asked for anyone with donations to send them to the Dignitas charity of Switzerland. She also said that she would be "very grateful".
"Sadly, all good things come to an end, as they say," she continued. "So I particularly wanted to say goodbye and thank you so very, very much. Perhaps I will see you eventually, on the other side—I do hope so. With very good wishes, as ever, Esther."
May she rest in peace.
