Kate Garraway is to take a leave of absence from her TV and radio roles following the death of her husband, former political adviser Derek Draper, at the age of 56.
The Good Morning Britain and Smooth Radio presenter, also 56, announced that her husband died after suffering long-lasting symptoms from coronavirus, in a post to Instagram on Friday.
Garraway will be taking a break from her TV and radio presenting roles for the time being but she plans to return to work in the future, the PA news agency understands.
Meanwhile, Ben Shephard shared a message of support for his Good Morning Britain co-host following the death of her husband.
"On what has been the saddest of days @kategarraway I've been reminding myself of the wonderful times and memories we have all shared together," Shephard said on Instagram, sharing a picture of Draper kissing Garraway on the cheek.
"This is how I’ll always think of Derek - bringing you so much joy, your smile says it all, the size of which is matched only by his love for you, Darcey and Bill. Sending all our love Kate to you and all the family.
"Also thank you to everyone who has reached out to me, I promise I will pass on your messages, I know they will bring Kate so much comfort as they have for the last few years."
Fellow Good Morning Britain star Susanna Reid shared a black and white picture of the couple, writing: "Our whole hearts are with you all @kategarraway & Derek's family."
Richard Arnold, who fronts the entertainment coverage on Good Morning Britain, added: "By your side always."
Charlotte Hawkins described the news as "absolutely heartbreaking" and sent "much love" to her fellow presenter.
In a post on Instagram, she wrote: "Such desperately sad news about Derek.
"It’s been an incredibly tough time for all the family & Kate has been so strong throughout all this – please send her your love & prayers so she knows we’re all here for her."
Former Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan also sent his "deepest love and condolences" to the family, sharing a photograph of the smiling couple on Instagram.
"A brilliantly clever and funny man who fought his covid health hell with such courage & resilience, helped every step of the way by his magnificent wife Kate whose loyal, loving, selfless devotion was truly astounding," he said.
Fellow ITV presenter Lorraine Kelly described Garraway as "an astonishing woman" as she sent her sympathies.
She reshared Garraway's post to Instagram and added: "This is just so sad. Our friend @kategarraway has been so strong and brave.
"Thoughts with her and her children and family. She was right by his side until the end and did him proud. An astonishing woman."
This Morning host Alison Hammond said the crew of the ITV mid-morning show were "sending our love" to Garraway and her children, while presenting the show on Friday.
She said: "We just want to say, all of us here at This Morning, we’re sending our love to you Kate and, of course, Darcey and Billy."
Broadcaster Carol Vorderman also sent her "thoughts & love" to Garraway and her family, adding: "Heartbreaking, after the last years, they have lost the man they love so much."
Comedian Alan Carr said: "Oh Kate that’s so awful. Sending you so much love and the deepest condolences."
Line Of Duty actress Vicky McClure, singer Alesha Dixon, Boyzone star Ronan Keating and radio host Zoe Ball were also among those sending their love to Garraway.
Source: Press Association
