Veteran English broadcaster Dermot Murnaghan has died at the age of 68.
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The sad news comes a year after revealing he had been diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer.
Murnaghan, who enjoyed a distinguished career with the BBC, ITV, and Sky News, passed away peacefully at his home in North London.
His family announced the news on Saturday, confirming he died following a period of illness.
TV Presenter Dies Aged 68 After Cancer Battle
Murnaghan's family shared a statement on social media announcing his passing.
"It is with great sadness that the family of Dermot Murnaghan announces that he passed away at home in North London earlier this morning (11th July) at the age of 68 following a period of illness with prostate cancer," the statement read.
"He died peacefully with his family at his side."
The family thanked the doctors, nurses, and caregivers who looked after Murnaghan throughout his illness.
They also confirmed that, in keeping with his wishes, his funeral will be a private family ceremony.
A memorial service for friends and colleagues will be held later this year.
Over a broadcasting career spanning five decades, Murnaghan became one of the most recognizable faces on British television news.
Broadcaster Became Advocate for Prostate Cancer Awareness
Murnaghan anchored some of the UK's biggest news programs, including the ITV Evening News and the BBC News at Six and BBC News at Ten.
He also served as a main presenter on BBC Breakfast between September 2002 and December 2007. In addition, he hosted the popular quiz show Eggheads.
Last summer, Murnaghan publicly revealed his stage four prostate cancer diagnosis. He told his followers that he was "responding positively" to treatment and "feeling well."
He went on to become a passionate advocate for prostate cancer awareness, encouraging men to get tested.
"Needless to say my message to all men over 50, in high risk groups, or displaying symptoms, is get yourself tested and campaign for routine prostate screening by the NHS," he said.
"Early detection is crucial. And be aware, this disease can sometimes progress rapidly without obvious symptoms."
In the statement announcing his death, Murnaghan's family thanked the public for the support they had shown since his diagnosis.
They also asked those wishing to honor his memory to consider supporting Prostate Cancer UK, Prostate Cancer Research, and North London Hospice, so "others may benefit from the research and care he received."
