Latest news with #OperationRedFlag
Wales Online
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Blankety Blank viewers stunned at 'very sad' message about contestant as credits roll
Blankety Blank viewers stunned at 'very sad' message about contestant as credits roll Nathanael Hill was seen winning the star prize at the end of Saturday night's BBC One show before Nathanael Hill, left, alongside host Bradley Walsh(Image: BBC) Blankety Blank fans were left stunned after the latest episode revealed that the triumphant contestant had tragically passed away since the recording. Nathanael Hill graced the BBC One show, hosted by Bradley Walsh, and viewers saw him clinch the star prize by the programme's conclusion. But, as the credits rolled, a poignant in memoriam tribute appeared stating 'Nathanael Hill 1985 - 2025. '. Audiences took to social media to share their grief upon discovering Nathanael's untimely death. On X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, @Johnboy_Cook posted: "Wow. That's so sad. RIP Nathanael.", reports the Manchester Evening News. Meanwhile, @Di2409 commented: "RIP Nathanael fly high." Article continues below Others joined in the condolences, with @lovelybones2013 sharing: "Oh that's sad... RIP Nathaniel" and @dazfromsomerset expressing: "Oh sad he passed away young." Hailing from Kirby in Merseyside, Nathanael's obituary in the Liverpool Echo confirmed his passing in April, 2025. His career was marked by distinguished service as an armour officer in the Royal Air Force, where he completed multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and participated in Operation Red Flag. For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter At 39, Nathanael sustained injuries from shrapnel caused by a roadside bomb during his deployment in south-central Asia, leading to his medical discharge. Post-military life brought further challenges; he was diagnosed with late-onset type 1 diabetes four years after leaving the forces. A blood clot discovered in his leg during the Covid-19 pandemic compounded his health issues, preventing full recovery of his leg. Following three battles with sepsis, Nathanael opted for an above-the-knee amputation on his leg. Hearts were heavy as tributes poured in for Nathanael after his passing in April. Liverpool Tritons RUFC honoured their beloved member with heartfelt words: "It is with deep sadness that Liverpool Tritons RUFC announces the passing of our dear friend, former player, and coach, Nathanael Hill – known to many simply as Nate." Nate's contribution to Liverpool Tritons RUFC was said to be immense, earning him great respect: "Nate was a cherished member of the Tritons for several years. As both a formidable player on the pitch and a passionate, dedicated coach off it, Nate brought skill, heart, and a contagious enthusiasm to everything he did. His commitment to inclusive rugby and to our community helped shape the club into what it is today." The tribute continued to honour Nate's legacy: "More than his achievements in the game, Nate will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humour, and the unwavering support he showed to teammates, new players, and friends alike. His loss will be felt deeply across the club and far beyond." Article continues below Simon Bartley shared his fond memories of Nathanael's generosity and uplifting spirit: "His friends will remember him as someone with a big heart, always willing to offer support to anyone. A shining light has dimmed with the loss of Nate, we have lost a champion for inclusion and a great friend to so many." Prior to his untimely death, Nathanael had embarked on fundraising efforts to fulfil his Paralympic aspirations with Team GB at the 2028 LA Paralympics.
Metro
15 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Metro
Blankety Blank viewers shocked discovering winner died after latest episode
Blankety Blank has paid tribute to a contestant who died just a few months before his episode aired. First airing in 1979, the comedy game show sees contestants trying to match answers given by celebrity panellists to fill-in-the-blank questions. It was revived in 2021, with the current version being hosted by Bradley Walsh. On the latest episode of the show, the famous panellists were Jack Dee, Rob Beckett, Lucy Beaumont, Steph McGovern, Kelly Holmes and Omid Djalili. One of the contestants was contestant Nathanael Hill from Kirkby, who eventually took out the win. However, at the conclusion, viewers were shocked to learn he had since died. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video In the credits, a tribute popped up that revealed he'd died a few months ago. Showing a photo of him riding a horse, the caption read: 'Nathanael Hill 1985 – 2025.' Soon after those tuning in shared their own tributes online. 'Who knew you could get sad at the end of an episode of Blankety Blank? RIP Nathanael,' Andie shared on X. 'Well, I wasn't expecting that. Poor Nathaniel. RIP,' Paul shared. 'RIP Nathanial 😢 Fly high,' Di added. A report from the Liverpool Echo explained that Hill died aged 39 in April this year. A former armour officer in the air force, Hill had completed six tours of Iraq, four tours of Afghanistan and worked on Operation Red Flag. However, while in south-central Asia, he was injured by shrapnel from a roadside bomb and was then medically discharged. Four years later he was diagnosed with late-onset type 1 diabetes. During the pandemic doctors discovered a blood clot in his leg, with Hill then battling three bouts of sepsis before having an above-knee amputation in October 2022. After that Hill, a doting dad, began coaching and got back into triathlons and had aspirations to represent Team GB at the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics. 'If I get to represent Team GB it would just be a full circle. It would be a swan song for me,' he told the publication. More Trending 'My last engagement for the Air Force was opening the London 2012 Olympics games and the 2023 Olympics is going to be in LA, America, where I was recognised for saving two American officers' lives. 'Now, I can be seen as overcoming this next challenge and to be competing in their country.' His cause of death has not been revealed. View More » Blankety Blank is streaming on BBC iPlayer. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: The Chase viewers rage as contestant's 'correct' answer is rejected
Edinburgh Live
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
Blankety Blank viewers 'in shock' as it's revealed winning contestant has died
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Blankety Blank fans were left reeling after the show's recent Saturday night episode ended with the poignant revelation that the victorious contestant, Nathanael Hill, had passed away since the episode was recorded. Nathanael Hill, featured on the BBC One quiz show hosted by Bradley Walsh, was seen clinching the star prize in the broadcast. Yet following the rolling credits, a touching tribute appeared on screen with the words 'Nathanael Hill 1985 - 2025. '. READ MORE - Ryanair, Easyjet and Jet2 passengers face fine for 'buying sandwich pre-flight' READ MORE - Jeremy Clarkson makes 'candid comment' on relationship with partner Lisa Hogan Shock spread among viewers who took to social media platforms to express their grief upon discovering Nathaneal had sadly passed away. On X, previously known as Twitter, @Johnboy_Cook mourned: "Wow. That's so sad. RIP Nathaneal.", reports the Manchester Evening News. while @Di2409 shared: "RIP Nathaneal fly high." @lovelybones2013 lamented: "Oh that's sad... RIP Nathaniel" and @dazfromsomerset observed: "Oh sad he passed away young." Hailing from Kirby in Merseyside, Nathanael's demise occurred in April 2025, reports the Liverpool Echo. In his life, he served as an armour officer with the Royal Air Force, seeing action through six tours of Iraq and four of Afghanistan, as well as participating in Operation Red Flag. On a mission in south-central Asia at 39, Nathanael sustained injuries from shrapnel caused by a roadside bomb that went off remotely, which ultimately led to his medical discharge. Following his departure from service, it was four years later that Nathanael faced a diagnosis of late-onset type 1 diabetes, with doctors also discovering a blood clot in his leg amid the Covid-19 pandemic—complications that impeded the full recovery of his leg. Following three bouts of sepsis, Nathanael made the difficult decision to undergo an above-knee amputation. Upon news of his passing in April, numerous tributes poured in to honour Nathanael's memory. Liverpool Tritons RUFC shared a heartfelt tribute, stating: "It is with deep sadness that Liverpool Tritons RUFC announces the passing of our dear friend, former player, and coach, Nathanael Hill – known to many simply as Nate." As a valued member of the Tritons for several years, Nathanael was admired for his skills on the pitch and his unwavering dedication as a coach. He brought immense passion and enthusiasm to the sport, playing a pivotal role in shaping the club's inclusive rugby community. The tribute continued: "More than his achievements in the game, Nate will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humour, and the unwavering support he showed to teammates, new players, and friends alike. His loss will be felt deeply across the club and far beyond." Nathanael's friend, Simon Bartley, remembered him fondly, saying: "His friends will remember him as someone with a big heart, always willing to offer support to anyone. A shining light has dimmed with the loss of Nate, we have lost a champion for inclusion and a great friend to so many." Prior to his passing, Nathanael had begun a fundraising campaign to support his ambitious goal of securing a gold medal for Team GB at the 2028 LA Paralympics.
Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Blankety Blank viewers in shock after discovering winning contestant died after filming show
Fans have paid tribute to the former armour officer EMOTIONAL TRIBUTE Blankety Blank viewers in shock after discovering winning contestant died after filming show A BLANKETY Blank contestant has sadly passed away, with viewers finding out in a tribute at the end of the episode he starred on. Fans tuning into Blankety Blank on Saturday night were left in shock when they learned that the winning contestant had sadly died. Advertisement 3 Nathanael Hill filmed for Blankety Blank shortly before his death Credit: BBC 3 A tribute for Nathanael flashed up on screen after the episode aired this evening Credit: BBC Nathanael Hill had passed away after filming for the hit show took place. A tribute flashed up on screen to commemorate his life at the end of the episode hosted by Bradley Walsh, which aired on Saturday night (June 14). Nathanael was seen winning the show's main prize at the end of the programme tonight. And fans were devastated when his passing was revealed and they learned he had died months ago. Advertisement After the show's credits ended, a memorial screen appeared. The tribute screen simply read: "Nathanael Hill 1985 - 2025." After the tribute flashed up on screen at the end, one person penned: "Jesus. RIP Nathaniel." A second then said: "Well I don't normally bother with the credits at the end of #blanketyblank but that was a sad way to finish a jolly show." Advertisement "Well I wasn't expecting that. Poor Nathaniel. RIP," said a third. A fourth then penned: "Rest in perfect peace, Nathanael Hill." The Vivienne's final TV appearance aired just days before tragic death aged 32 While a fifth added: "Aw that was a beautiful touch at the end." At just 39 years of age, Nathanael died in April 2025, according to a Liverpool Echo report. Advertisement The game show star was from Kirkby in Merseyside, and was a doting dad. He worked as an armour officer in the air force and during his time he completed six tours of Iraq, four tours of Afghanistan and worked on Operation Red Flag. During a stint in south-central Asia, Nathanael got injured by shrapnel from a roadside bomb. The bomb was remotely detonated and was medically discharged. Advertisement Four years after leaving the military Nathanael was diagnosed with late-onset type 1 diabetes. Doctors also found a blood clot in his leg amid the coronavirus pandemic. He then contracted three bouts of sepsis and decided to have an above-knee amputation on his leg in October 2022. After the amputation Nathanael began coaching and got back into triathlons. Advertisement He was also on the UK paratriathlon pathway with a goal of competing for Team GB. Nathanael's cause of death is not known. Tributes were paid to Nathanael after news of his death broke two months ago. Tritons RUFC shared a touching tribute for their "dear friend and former player". Advertisement The tribute read: "It is with deep sadness that Liverpool Tritons RUFC announces the passing of our dear friend, former player, and coach, Nathanael Hill – known to many simply as Nate. "Nate was a cherished member of the Tritons for several years. As both a formidable player on the pitch and a passionate, dedicated coach off it, Nate brought skill, heart, and a contagious enthusiasm to everything he did. "His commitment to inclusive rugby and to our community helped shape the club into what it is today." The tribute added: "More than his achievements in the game, Nate will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humour, and the unwavering support he showed to teammates, new players, and friends alike. Advertisement "His loss will be felt deeply across the club and far beyond." Before his death, Nathanael revealed his dream of achieving gold for Team GB at the 2028 LA Paralympics. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo last year about his Team GB dreams, Nathanael said: 'If I get to represent Team GB it would just be a full circle. It would be a swan song for me. "My last engagement for the Air Force was opening the London 2012 Olympics games and the 2023 Olympics is going to be in LA, America, where I was recognised for saving two American officers' lives. Advertisement "Now, I can be seen as overcoming this next challenge and to be competing in their country."
The Irish Sun
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Blankety Blank viewers in shock after discovering winning contestant died after filming show
A BLANKETY Blank contestant has sadly passed away, with viewers finding out in a tribute at the end of the episode he starred on. Fans tuning into Blankety Blank on Saturday night were left in shock when they learned that the winning contestant had sadly died. Advertisement 3 Nathanael Hill filmed for Blankety Blank shortly before his death Credit: BBC 3 A tribute for Nathanael flashed up on screen after the episode aired this evening Credit: BBC Nathanael Hill had passed away after filming for the hit show took place. A tribute flashed up on screen to commemorate his life at the end of the episode hosted by Bradley Walsh, which aired on Saturday night (June 14). Nathanael was seen winning the show's main prize at the end of the programme tonight. And fans were devastated when his passing was revealed and they learned he had died months ago. Advertisement Read More about TV stars After the show's credits ended, a memorial screen appeared. The tribute screen simply read: "Nathanael Hill 1985 - 2025." After the tribute flashed up on screen at the end, one person penned: "Jesus. RIP Nathaniel." A second then said: "Well I don't normally bother with the credits at the end of #blanketyblank but that was a sad way to finish a jolly show. " Advertisement Most read in News TV "Well I wasn't expecting that. Poor Nathaniel. RIP," said a third. A fourth then penned: "Rest in perfect peace, Nathanael Hill." The Vivienne's final TV appearance aired just days before tragic death aged 32 While a fifth added: "Aw that was a beautiful touch at the end." At just 39 years of age, Nathanael died in April 2025, according to a Liverpool Echo report. Advertisement The game show star was from Kirkby in Merseyside, and was a doting dad. He worked as an armour officer in the air force and during his time he completed six tours of Iraq, four tours of Afghanistan and worked on Operation Red Flag. During a stint in south-central Asia, Nathanael got injured by shrapnel from a roadside bomb. The bomb was remotely detonated and was medically discharged. Advertisement Four years after leaving the military Nathanael was diagnosed with late-onset type 1 diabetes. Doctors also found a blood clot in his leg amid the coronavirus pandemic. He then contracted three bouts of sepsis and decided to have an above-knee amputation on his leg in October 2022. After the amputation Nathanael began coaching and got back into triathlons. Advertisement He was also on the UK paratriathlon pathway with a goal of competing for Team GB. Nathanael's cause of death is not known. Tributes were paid to Nathanael after news of his death broke two months ago. Tritons RUFC shared a touching tribute for their "dear friend and former player". Advertisement The tribute read: "It is with deep sadness that Liverpool Tritons RUFC announces the passing of our dear friend, former player, and coach, Nathanael Hill – known to many simply as Nate. "Nate was a cherished member of the Tritons for several years. As both a formidable player on the pitch and a passionate, dedicated coach off it, Nate brought skill, heart, and a contagious enthusiasm to everything he did. "His commitment to inclusive rugby and to our community helped shape the club into what it is today." The tribute added: "More than his achievements in the game, Nate will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humour, and the unwavering support he showed to teammates, new players, and friends alike. Advertisement "His loss will be felt deeply across the club and far beyond." Before his death, Nathanael revealed his dream of achieving gold for Team GB at the 2028 LA Paralympics. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo last year about his Team GB dreams, Nathanael said: 'If I get to represent Team GB it would just be a full circle. It would be a swan song for me. " My last engagement for the Air Force was opening the London 2012 Olympics games and the 2023 Olympics is going to be in LA, America, where I was recognised for saving two American officers' lives. Advertisement " Now, I can be seen as overcoming this next challenge and to be competing in their country. " 3 Nathanael died in April 2025 Credit: BBC
