'Fighter to the end': Tributes pour in for 'A place in the Sun' presenter Jonnie Irwin who died at 50
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The entertainment industry mourns the loss of 'A Place in the Sun' presenter Jonnie Irwin, who died at the age of 50 after a battle with lung cancer. His wife, Jessica Morgan, confirmed the news in a heartfelt social media post.
Irwin's co-presenter on 'A Place in the Sun', Jasmine Harman, shared an emotional tribute on social media, expressing her deep sorrow. She reminisced about their early days as TV presenters and the incredible journey they embarked on together. Harman praised Irwin's charisma, energy, and the ability to connect with people, making them feel at ease.
Jasmine Harman says 'life simply not fair' remembering her husband
View this post on Instagram
Harman highlighted Irwin's ultimate joy in becoming a husband and father, emphasizing his legendary role in the lives of his wife and three sons. She reflected on the unfairness of life and encouraged cherishing every moment.
In a photo of herself and Jonnie, she said: “My heart is broken.”
Jasmine’s full tribute read, “Jonnie Irwin – I will always remember the first time I heard your name. When I was doing a screen test for a new show, they said "we definitely want Jonnie, but we need to find another presenter. I wondered who this mysterious Jonnie was."
“We met in Cape Town, filming the pilot. You were so charismatic and energetic, so confident and fun. I understood immediately why they had to have you. Your cheeky-chappy persona and naughty sense of humour always broke the ice and made people laugh. Everyone warmed to you and you had the incredible ability to connect with people, making them feel like they’d known you for years."
“To begin our TV careers together was a pleasure and a privilege I will be eternally grateful for. Almost twenty years ago, as two nervous new presenters (me perhaps more nervous than you!) little did we know we know about the adventure we were about to embark on, and the friends we would become."
“Professionally, you were well suited to life in front of the lens. But for years, you always talked about wanting to settle down and become a dad. Your wish was granted when you met Jess. Never were you happier than in your role as husband and Dad to the most awesome three boys – you are a legend."
“Life is simply not fair. We can’t reason with it; there are no answers to the question Why? We can, in your memory learn to cherish every hug, every conversation, every moment, for the priceless time we have. Enjoy every breath, every sunrise and sunset, never take anything for granted, because tomorrow is not promised."
“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. Sending so much love to Jonnie’s family & loved ones.”
Colleagues and friends pay emotional tributes to Jonnie Irwin
Scarlette Douglas, who presented 'A Place in the Sun' from 2015 to 2022, posted a touching tribute on her Instagram, wishing "May the sun always shine on you Jonnie. RIP.”
Danni Menzies, another star from 'A Place in the Sun', shared a poignant quote on her Instagram Stories, reflecting “When we die, I want to believe that we are scattered throughout all the people that have ever loved us. That we will continue to exist in them. In their bloodstream. For generations. Gor lifetimes.” Writing alongside this, she added: “You will Jonnie xxx.”
Industry peers also joined in remembering Jonnie Irwin. Alexander, presenter of Homes Under the Hammer, described him as a "true legend."
Former Gogglebox star Stephen Lustig-Webb expressed his condolences, noting “Rest in peace, always came across as a thoroughly decent person! So sad, love n hugs to him family.”
Fans share heartfelt tributes to Jonnie Irwin
As the news of Jonnie Irwin's passing spread, fans took to social media to express their heartfelt tributes and condolences. The emotional messages reflect the impact that Jonnie had on viewers and the deep connection he formed with his audience.
One fan emphasized Jonnie's determination to fight cancer, describing, "He was determined to beat the cancer but sadly he lost the fight. Such a brave man. Our thoughts are with his family, so sad. RIP Jonnie."
Another expressed condolences to Jonnie's family, acknowledging, "Condolences to his beautiful family such a fighter to the end R.I.P brave Johnny "
Another user commented, "So so sad, such an amazing bloke with so much talent, why oh why are all the good people being taken away from us RIP Jonnie."