The ITV show paid an emotional tribute to John Stapleton following his sad death over the weekend

In the studio, presenters spoke candidly about Stapleton’s character. He was remembered as someone with an unshakable sense of integrity, a trait that carried him through the many challenges of working in broadcast journalism. His commitment to fairness and accuracy made him a trusted voice in British homes, and his calm demeanor provided reassurance during times of national crisis. Viewers tuning in to the tribute heard first-hand how much he was admired, not only for his talent but also for his humility and kindness.

Stapleton’s journey in journalism began long before he became a household name. Starting out in local newspapers, he quickly rose through the ranks thanks to his keen eye for a story and determination to pursue the truth. Eventually, he transitioned into television, where his career flourished. He worked across several major programs, cementing his reputation as a reliable and versatile broadcaster. His contributions spanned news, current affairs, and consumer programming, reflecting his wide-ranging interests and ability to engage with diverse topics.

One of the recurring themes in the ITV tribute was the way Stapleton connected with ordinary people. Whether he was reporting from the front lines of a breaking story or speaking with families about their struggles, he approached every interview with empathy and respect. This quality made him particularly effective in consumer affairs reporting, where his advocacy for viewers often led to tangible change. The show highlighted several such moments, reminding audiences of the impact he had beyond the studio.

His colleagues also spoke about his sense of humor, which brought levity to even the most challenging days in the newsroom. Behind the scenes, Stapleton was known for his generosity of spirit, often taking younger journalists under his wing and offering guidance. Many of today’s leading broadcasters credit him with helping shape their careers, a testament to his enduring influence. The tribute featured personal reflections from those who had worked closely with him, emphasizing how deeply his mentorship will be missed.

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Richard Madeley and Susanna Reid on Good Morning Britain(Image: ITV)

Susanna Reid said the broadcasting world had ‘lost a legend’ as Good Morning Britain paid an emotional tribute to John Stapleton following his death.

The veteran broadcaster, who presented on programmes including the BBC’s Watchdog and ITV’s GMTV and Good Morning Britain, died in hospital on Sunday (September 21) at the age of 79, his agent announced.

His son Nick Stapleton, who appears on BBC One’s Scam Interceptors, said it has been “very hard to take” the loss of both of his parents, after his mother, Lynn Faulds Wood, died in 2020.

In an emotional tribute, he also said his father “wasn’t happy living his life” with Parkinson’s disease, and that he was able to “leave us on his terms, without suffering. Living independently and still doing the things he loved until almost the very end”.

Opening GMB on Monday (September 22), Susanna said: “We go on air this morning on Good Morning Britain holding in our hearts the family of John Stapleton. He was a part of this programme’s history and a part of breakfast television history.”

She continued: “We will be remembering John throughout the programme. We were lucky enough to interview John last year, when he described in his own words, coming out about his Parkinson’s diagnosis. He was so incredibly positive.”

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John Stapleton on Good Morning Britain(Image: ITV)

Praising his “wit and warmth”, Susanna said that broadcasting has “lost a legend” and while appearing to become emotional, her co-star Richard Madeley said: “I can’t believe he’s gone actually. It seems impossible.”

He later shared: “The lights dimmed for many of us yesterday morning, when we got the news that Stapes, John Stapleton, our good friend and colleague, had very quietly slipped away.”

Richard Arnold, GMB’s entertainment editor, shared: “I remember him hugely fondly. For the best part of about 30 years, when I started in the business, my first ever boss,. John took me under his wing.”

In 2024, Stapleton revealed he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after discovering a tremor, prompting him to see a specialist who initially thought it was a benign essential tremor, before later diagnosing him with the disease.

Announcing his disease on GMB, Stapleton said: “I’m doing fine. I’m coping, I think. Learning to live with it. I think I’m fairly pragmatic about it.

“There’s no point in being miserable… It won’t ever change. I mean, Parkinson’s is here with me now for the rest of my life. Best I can do is try and control it and take the advice of all the experts.”

ITV paid an emotional tribute this week to veteran broadcaster John Stapleton, following the heartbreaking news of his death over the weekend. Viewers, colleagues, and the wider media community have been left reflecting on the remarkable career of a man whose voice and presence shaped British television for decades. The tribute aired during ITV’s flagship morning program, where presenters and co-hosts remembered Stapleton not only as a consummate journalist but also as a warm and generous colleague whose professionalism inspired those around him.

Stapleton’s death has left a void in the world of broadcasting. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he became a familiar face on British screens, earning respect for his sharp journalistic instincts and ability to connect with audiences. From hard-hitting investigative reports to compassionate interviews, Stapleton’s work embodied the very best of television journalism. Colleagues frequently praised his dedication, with many noting that his natural curiosity and empathy allowed him to bring a unique perspective to every story he covered.

The ITV tribute was a heartfelt acknowledgment of this legacy. Clips from his most memorable interviews and broadcasts were shown, highlighting the versatility of his career. From covering political scandals to tackling everyday consumer issues, Stapleton had a way of making stories resonate with the public. The montage was interspersed with personal anecdotes from fellow presenters who described him as not just a colleague, but also a mentor and a friend. For many watching, it was a poignant reminder of how deeply he influenced the industry and the lives of those he worked with.

The news of his passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the media industry. Fellow journalists, politicians, and viewers alike have shared their memories of Stapleton, underscoring the breadth of his impact. Social media platforms were filled with messages honoring his professionalism, warmth, and the trust he built with audiences over decades. For many, his death marks the end of an era in broadcasting, a reminder of a time when journalism was defined by its commitment to truth and service to the public.

ITV’s tribute also highlighted Stapleton’s family life, recognizing the support and love that grounded him throughout his career. He was remembered not just as a broadcaster but as a husband, father, and friend. Those who knew him personally described him as deeply devoted to his loved ones, balancing the demands of journalism with a strong sense of family values. The inclusion of these personal stories in the tribute added to its poignancy, showing the man behind the professional persona.

As the segment drew to a close, ITV presenters expressed their condolences to Stapleton’s family and thanked him for his immeasurable contributions to British television. The final moments of the tribute featured a montage of his career highlights, accompanied by a heartfelt message of gratitude for his service to journalism and the public. It was a fitting farewell to a man who dedicated his life to informing, educating, and connecting with audiences across the country.

John Stapleton’s death is undoubtedly a loss for British broadcasting, but his legacy lives on in the countless journalists he inspired and the viewers whose lives he touched. ITV’s tribute captured both the professional excellence and the personal warmth that defined his career. As the media community reflects on his passing, one thing is clear: Stapleton’s work set a standard that will continue to guide journalists for years to come. His absence will be felt deeply, but his influence will remain a lasting part of the story of British television.