The A Place In The Sun host’s death aged 50 was announced last night following a three-and-a-half year battle with cancer.

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Jonnie was given six-months to live after his diagnosis in August 2020.

Tragically, the cancer spread to his brain and in 2022 the popular presenter revealed he had just six months to live.

Jonnie you really were the most handsome man I ever knew and I am so sorry for this cruel end

Jonnie’s wife Jessica

In an interview the late star did last year, he revealed he kept his diagnosis a secret as he wanted to “continue working” so he could provide for his family.

Appearing on the OneChat podcast with AIG life , Jonnie explained: “The only reason I kept it secret is because I’ve got to earn, I’ve got to feed my babies, pay the bills. And as soon as you say you’ve got cancer, people just write you off.”

Last night Jonnie’s family revealed he had passed away, in an emotional statement.

Posted on Instagram it read: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie’s passing. 

“A truly remarkable soul, he fought bravely against cancer with unwavering strength and courage. Jonnie touched the lives of so many with his kindness, warmth, and infectious spirit.

“At this time, we kindly ask for the privacy of Jonnie’s family as they navigate through this profound loss. Their grief is immeasurable, and your thoughts, prayers, and support are deeply appreciated.

“As we remember the beautiful moments shared with Jonnie, let us celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will forever be etched in our hearts. Jonnie may be gone from our sight, but his love, laughter, and memories will live on.

“Rest in peace, dear Jonnie. You will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.”

Following the news of her husband’s death, Jonnie’s beloved wife paid an emotional tribute to him.

Mum-of-three Jess called her brave husband “magical” and vowed to make him proud in a post on Instagram.

She wrote: ‘Good night my favourite. Thank you for everything’. 

“I will always love you. The hardest day has come, a day I prayed wouldn’t come. It’s with all the the saddness in the world that I confirm Jonnie has passed away earlier today’.

“His magical brain that continued to fight to the end has now gone to sleep. He has given me more than I could ever have wished for, 8 bonkers years of love and adventure and 3 amazing boys. 

“I will continue to make you proud but only with your love still finding me and guiding me for the rest of my life, me and the boys still need you. Jonnie you really were the most handsome man I ever knew and I am so sorry for this cruel end.

“It really wasn’t fair and you didn’t deserve any of this. You gave so much time to others and touched everyone you met, I have never experienced anything like the effect you had on people. I love you so much and forever proud of you xxx.”

There was a mass outpouring of love for the popular presenter with fans, friends and co-stars all paying their respects and sharing memories.

A statement from Channel 4 read: “Everyone at Channel 4 is deeply saddened by the news of Jonnie’s death. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Jonnie’s family, his wife Jessica and their three sons, as well as his friends and colleagues.
Jonnie was a beloved presenter on A Place In The Sun for over 18 years.

“He helped realise the dreams of many on the show and inspired countless viewers to find their own places in the sun.
Much loved by colleagues and audiences alike he will be greatly missed.”

Fellow Place in the Sun presenter Jasmine Harman posted a touching photo of the pair on Instagram – saying “the world is a little darker today.

She added: “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.”

Meanwhile ITV star Nicki Chapman wrote: “Heart broken. Sending love to Jess and the family.

“And escape from the country’s Sonali Shah: I feel so lucky to have known Jonnie.”

The Place in the Sun and Escape to the Country star had previously told The Sun of his sorrow at not being able to see his children grow up.

He said last March: “I think they’re not going to remember me, they’re really not.

“They’re too young and if I die this year there’s no chance they will have memories. And someone else is going to bring them up.

“I’ve done the hard yards with them and someone else will get the easy bit.”

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