Gerry Kelly was a presenter on UTV and BBC Radio Ulster and was confirmed to have died over the weekend. He had previously revealed in 2018 that he had been diagnosed with cancer.
Gerry Kelly has died at the age of 77
Northern Irish broadcaster Gerry Kelly has died at the age of 77. The presenter had hosted projects for UTV and BBC Radio Ulster, interviewing major sport stars including Rory McIlroy.
Tributes poured out on Sunday after news of Gerry’s death was confirmed – with Northern Ireland’s deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly branding him “a huge character”. In 2018, Gerry told fans that he had been diagnosed with cancer in 2016.
He underwent surgery to combat the disease and also endured six rounds of chemotherapy to fight the cancer – and previously told fans that surgery had successfully removed a growth. It has been reported that he died at his home on Sunday surrounded by family – with numerous stars issuing statements in celebration of his life.
Deputy First Minister Little-Pengelly said: “So sorry to hear of the death of Gerry Kelly, a face and a voice that so many generations across Northern Ireland were familiar with. [He was] a much loved presenter with a huge character.
“He interviewed so many, many hundreds of people across decades including his famous clip with a young Rory McIlroy and the wash machine. Thinking of all his family and friends at this time of mourning, sending my deepest condolences and may God be with them and comfort them at this time of sad loss.”
Journalist Anne Hailes shared her shock of the news. She said in a statement: “Gerry Kelly passed away this morning at home with his wife Helena and his daughters Sarah and Claire. He had been ill for some time. Big man who will leave big memories, RIP.”
Musician Peter Corry expressed his sadness, writing: “Very sad to hear that Gerry Kelly has passed away. He was a big champion of mine in the early days of my career and became a good friend. His weekly TV show was so important for entertainment in NI and to performers here.
“It was also lovely to have him as a special guest on The Music Box in 2016. My thoughts are with Helena, Sara, Claire and all of the family.”
Fellow broadcaster William Crawley said: “I’m sorry to hear that Gerry Kelly has died. He had a rare gift for drawing out a guest with deep curiosity and genuine warmth; he made interviews feel like real conversations.”
William added: “He inspired, encouraged and mentored other broadcasters too. A big star who was always a gentleman.”
And further broadcaster Ralph McLean said it was “desperately sad” news, writing: ” A natural broadcaster, great family man and always a gentleman. He made it all look so easy…always a sign of class. Thoughts with his family and loved ones at this tough time.”
Before building a career in broadcasting, Gerry was a primary school teacher and also taught as a lecturer in St Mary`s Teacher Training College, Belfast. He began a TV career as a part-time sports reporter and moved into television full time in 1979 – co-hosting a one-hour evening show on UTV alongside Gloria Hunniford.
He then turned to solo presenting, leading Good Evening Ulster and landing a presenting gig in the social action programme Lifestyle. He then built up his own brand, taking his broadcasting roadshows Kelly On Tour and Kelly On The Road in the 1980s – with the show evolving into Kelly by the end of the decade.
He was inducted into the Royal Television Society Hall of Fame in 1998 for his lifelong contribution to broadcasting and also landed two Entertainment and Media Awards (EMAs), with Kelly twice voted the most entertaining programme.
The star is survived by his wife, Helena, and their daughters Sarah and Claire – as well as his brother, former Down GAA goalkeeper Danny Kelly.
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