Davina McCall and Martin Lewis remember ‘national treasure’ Esther Rantzen
Celebrities and public figures are paying tribute to Dame Esther Rantzen, the broadcaster and campaigner who passed away at age 86. Rantzen was widely respected for her television career and her advocacy for assisted dying and charity work.
Why it matters
Rantzen was a significant cultural figure in the UK, and her death has prompted national reflection on her contributions to media and social reform.
Dame Esther Rantzen has died aged 86 (Chris Radburn/PA) PA Archive Carla Feric 3 minutes ago Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke , TV presenter Davina McCall and broadcaster Martin Lewis are among the stars paying tribute to “national treasure” Dame Esther Rantzen .
A statement on Wednesday announced the broadcaster and campaigner had died aged 86, with her family remembering her as “the most wonderful mother” and a “cherished grandmother”.
Dame Esther started her career as a broadcaster and became a household name after hosting That’s Life!, and went on to establish charities helping the young and old.
After being diagnosed with stage four lung cancer in 2023, she also became a prominent voice in the attempt to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales.
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