Dermot Murnaghan, Veteran Broadcaster, Remembered at London Memorial Service
Colleagues from television news paid tribute to the former Sky News anchor, who died at age 68 after a public battle with prostate cancer.
Veteran broadcaster Dermot Murnaghan was honored at a memorial service held at St Bride's Church in London's City on October 22, 2026. Among the attendees were prominent figures from British television news, including Susanna Reid of Good Morning Britain, and Sky News journalists Beth Rigby and Mark Austin.
Murnaghan, who was 68, died on July 11, 2026, following a period of illness. He had publicly announced his stage four prostate cancer diagnosis in 2025. Known for his extensive career in broadcasting, Murnaghan spent 15 years as a lead anchor for Sky News and also presented for BBC, ITV, and Channel 4.
Colleagues from Sky News, including political editor Beth Rigby, presenters Mark Austin, Matt Barbet, and Anna Jones, were present to pay their respects. Adam Boulton, former political editor of Sky News and Times Radio presenter, also attended, as did Sky Sports presenter Jacquie Beltrao and former 5 News presenter Sian Williams.
Susanna Reid shared her grief on Instagram, calling Murnaghan a "legendary news journalist and presenter." She recalled presenting with him at BBC Breakfast, describing him as "intelligent and charming" and a journalist who "never took himself too seriously."
Beth Rigby expressed her sadness, remembering working with Murnaghan during the 2019 general election coverage on Sky. Following his diagnosis, Murnaghan became an advocate for prostate cancer awareness. In a BBC Breakfast appearance in November 2025, he urged men in high-risk groups to seek medical advice, admitting he had delayed his own tests because he felt well.
Prostate Cancer UK released a statement expressing their heartbreak, calling Murnaghan a "passionate and dedicated supporter" whose efforts significantly impacted many men affected by the disease. The charity noted his work had a "huge impact" on hundreds of thousands of men nationwide.
Murnaghan began his broadcasting career in 1989 at Channel 4, hosting its breakfast program and business segments before becoming a lead presenter. He later moved to ITV, where he fronted the Lunchtime News and News at Ten, and led the network's coverage of the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, in 1997. He was a main presenter for BBC Breakfast from 2002 to 2007 before rejoining Sky News, where he covered significant events including the death of Queen Elizabeth II. He departed Sky News in 2023.
