DADDY'S WORDS
Jonnie Irwin revealed heartbreaking message for his three young children in moving interview before his death
The A Place In The Sun star spoke about his beloved children before he died
JONNIE Irwin shared a heartbreaking message he would be leaving for his three children in an emotional interview before his death.
The A Place In The Sun star, who has died age 50 from lung cancer, shared three small boys with his wife Jessica.
5
5
Last summer, Jonnie opened up about his terminal diagnosis and the wise words he would be leaving behind for his boys.
He told magazine: "I want them to believe they can do anything… I want them to be confident, but believe in yourselves, because you can do anything… I've seen their capabilities and they're boundless."
Jonnie' message to his sons read: "Family first, always look after your family. Your brothers, your mother... Put them first. Support them, love them, and know that they're so much more important than anyone else."
He went on to tell them that they should 'believe in themselves', as 'they can do anything'.
READ MORE ON JONNIE IRWIN
Jonnie leaves behind his wife Jessica and sons Rex, four, and three-year-old twins Rafa and Cormac.
He was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in 2020, a week after filming A Place In The Sun in Italy.
Tragically, the cancer spread to his brain and Jonnie revealed in 2022 he had just six months to live.
Today (Friday February 2) his family revealed he has passed away.
Most read in Showbiz
Among the tributes, A Place In The Sun has now released an official statement, saying the cast and crew for the Channel 4 show are "heartbroken".
It read: "We are heartbroken. Jonnie was a much-loved part of the A Place In The Sun family and for more than 18 years be brought joy, wit and bundles of energy to the show. We will mis him terribly. Our thoughts today are with Jess and the boys and the rest of Jonnie's family."
Jonnie presented on A Place In The Sun for 18 years.
His co-star Jasmine Harman has, meanwhile, spoken in glowing terms of her late friend and her admiration for him in the wake of his death.
She wrote on Instagram: "Jonnie, you’ve taught me so much in our time as work colleagues and as good friends. I have never admired you more than over the last few years as you’ve faced life with cancer with positivity, determination and bloody mindedness. I’ve never known anyone as strong as you. You have done yourself, your loved ones and all of us proud.
"The world is a little darker today without you, but I will always smile when I think of you. My partner in crime, my OG co-presenter – Jonnie, I will miss you."
Jonnie, who also hosted on Escape To The Country, never shied away from the gruelling treatment he was having to endure.
The brave star kept fans updated on social media and was photographed one week ago in a hospital gown.
Exhausted Jonnie snapped the selfie before an MRI scan and admitted he looked as though he 'hadn't slept for six nights'.
Announcing his tragic death, Jonnie's family wrote on Instagram tonight: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie’s passing.
“A truly remarkable soul, he fought bravely against cancer with unwavering strength and courage. Jonnie touched the lives of so many with his kindness, warmth, and infectious spirit.
“At this time, we kindly ask for the privacy of Jonnie’s family as they navigate through this profound loss. Their grief is immeasurable, and your thoughts, prayers, and support are deeply appreciated.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
“As we remember the beautiful moments shared with Jonnie, let us celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will forever be etched in our hearts. Jonnie may be gone from our sight, but his love, laughter, and memories will live on.
“Rest in peace, dear Jonnie. You will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.”
5
5
5
Keep up to date with the latest news, gossip and scandals on our celebrity live blog
Topics