Broadcaster Gerry Kelly has died at his home at the age of 77, prompting tributes from colleagues who remembered him as an "incredible" and "fun" presence. Kelly, a journalist and presenter, passed away on Sunday.
Lynda Bryans, a journalist and presenter who worked with Kelly, shared memories of his engaging personality. "He was such fun to be out with, you know, and he made you feel like you were very special," Bryans said. She recalled a humorous anecdote about how Kelly secured his role at UTV, a position initially intended for his brother, Danny Kelly, a GAA player.
According to Bryans, the company sought Danny to undertake some reporting. When they contacted the family home, it was Gerry who answered the door. The Head of Sport, mistaking him for his brother, offered him the job. "And look what that led to," Bryans commented on the serendipitous turn of events.
Kelly was also noted for his ability to attract guests to his show during a time when many were hesitant to visit Northern Ireland. Bryans stated that in the 1990s, "a lot of people were reluctant to come to Northern Ireland, but when they heard Gerry Kelly, they all wanted to be on the show."
In a moment Bryans described as "closing the circle," Kelly assisted students at Belfast Met. She added, "He was still the professional and the ultimate learning experience for the students."