BBC Breakfast hosts pay tribute to 'TV legend' as they announce tragic news live on air
BBC Breakfast presenter Sarah Campbell made a 'sad' announcement during Monday's (11 August) episode of the show. She and co-host Jon Kay revealed news of a public figure's passing.
Sarah teamed up with Jon to present Monday's BBC Breakfast, with the host stepping in for regular presenter Sally Nugent.
Halfway through the programme, Sarah and Jon broke the news of Joan 'Biddy' Baxter's passing, with a special tribute to the former Blue Peter producer being broadcast.
"Some sad news this morning because the pioneering BBC television producer Biddy Baxter has died at the age of 92," Sarah informed BBC audiences.
Jon continued: "For more than a quarter of a century, she was in charge of Blue Peter, devising the format which turned it into the most successful children's programme on television."
He then passed over to the BBC's arts correspondent, David Sillito, who offered additional details about Biddy's career whilst various clips and images of the late star were displayed.
After the heartfelt tribute, Sarah and Jon reminisced about Blue Peter and discussed Biddy's legacy, reports the Express.
"What a legend of children's television. That programme, when I was growing up, it was all about Blue Peter," Sarah remarked, with Jon responding: "It really was, wasn't it? And, just that name, at the end of every episode, Biddy Baxter. You'd see it on the telly, wouldn't you?"
Sarah disclosed she'd once posted a drawing to Blue Peter, whilst Jon boasted about how he earned a Blue Peter badge. Wrapping up the segment, Jon remarked about Biddy: "She was absolutely ahead of her time."
Sarah concurred: "She really was, and she was in control of that programme."
Jon continued, "Yes, presenters talking about living in fear of hearing her heels going down the steps into the studio to brief them between items!"
Word of Biddy's passing emerged on Sunday, 10 August, with a statement posted on Facebook by Ten Acre Films, which released her biography last year.
The message stated: "We are sad to report that longtime Blue Peter Editor Biddy Baxter has died at the age of 92. We salute a true pioneer, who navigated changing times in the television industry with instinct, tenacity, and style."
Biddy was renowned for serving as Blue Peter's editor, taking charge in 1962 and transforming the TV programme into a beloved staple.
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