Derek Draper: Tributes pour in as ‘brave’ and ‘strong’ Kate Garraway announces husband’s death
‘GMB’ host has been caring for Draper ever since he contracted Covid in March 2020
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Tributes are pouring in for Derek Draper, the husband of Kate Garraway, who has died, aged 56.
TV presenter Garraway has been caring for the former Labour Party adviser ever since he contracted Covid in the early stages of the pandemic.
In December, Draper suffered a heart attack that left him “fighting for his life” due to “the damage inflicted” by Covid”, which Garraway said caused “further complications”.
Garraway announced her husband’s death on Friday (5 January), writing: “I’m sad to have to tell you all that my darling husband Derek has passed away. Derek was surrounded by his family in his final days and I was by his side holding his hand throughout the last long hours and when he passed.
“I have so much more to say, and of course I will do so in due course, but for now I just want to thank all the medical teams who fought so hard to save him and to make his final moments as comfortable and dignified as possible.”
Clara Amfo praises Kate Garraway’s ‘devotion’ to late husband
BBC Radio 1 presenter Clara Amfo commented on Garraway’s post: “So very sorry for your loss Kate, your devotion to him was really beautiful to observe, may he rest in peace.”
Loose Women stars pay tribute to Derek Draper
Loose Women’s Denise Welch wrote on Kate Garraway’s Instagram post: “So much love to you and the children and of course all of the family.”
Her colleague Andrea McLean echoed: “Oh Kate. I’m so sorry to hear this. Sending you all my love.”
Denise Van Outen supports Garraway during ‘difficult time'
On Instagram, presenter Denise Van Outen wrote: “Sending so much love to you and your family during this incredibly difficult time. Such sad news. Sorry for your loss Kate.”
Former ITV daytime star Eamonn Holmes sends Kate Garraway well wishes
Eamonn Holmes, the former This Morning presenter, offered support to Kate Garraway beneath her Instagram post commemorating Derek Draper.
“Thinking of you and the children Kate,” he wrote. “He was many things , including too young. Sad times. With deepest condolences Eamonn.”
Sky News presenter announces death of ‘great friend’ Derek Draper live on air
Earlier on Friday, the news of Draper’s death was announced on Sky News by news anchor Ian King.
After discussing Draper’s political career and marriage to GMB host Kate Garraway, he added: “And very personally for me too, because I was at university with Derek more than 30 years ago, and I considered him a great friend.
“My condolences to the family.”
A tribute to Derek has been shared by All on the Board, the social media account best known for sharing messages on TFL travel boards.
Musician Joan Armatrading has posted her own tribute to Draper on Twitter/X.
“This is really sad and devastating news for Kate and her family,” she wrote. “Her husband Derek, who put up such a brave fight over a long period, has died.
“Sending you warm hugs Kate. RIP Derek.”
Former prime minister Gordon Brown remembers ‘brilliant, creative and multitalented’ Derek Draper
Gordon Brown has tweeted: “So sad that after such a brave struggle Derek Draper has lost his life as a result of Covid.
“I will remember him as brilliant, creative and multitalented, and our thoughts are with Kate, Darcey and Billy. RIP Derek.”
Kate Garraway has been hailed for helping to shine a light on the “selfless care” many family members give to their loved ones throughout husband Derek Draper’s medical problems.
The Good Morning Britain presenter had been open about her family’s journey after Draper fell seriously ill with Covid-19 in March 2020.
Following the announcement of his death on Friday, Garraway was praised by Carers Trust chief executive Kirsty McHugh.
“We’re saddened to hear the news about Derek Draper‘s death and our thoughts go out to his family,” McHugh said. “Derek‘s illness and Kate Garraway’s devoted care for him touched the hearts of so many of us.
“By sharing her own experience, Kate shone a light on the selfless care that millions of family members give to their loved ones across the UK. All too often, unpaid carers are hidden away but Kate laid bare the very real challenges so many families face and the support they need.”
Ed Miliband pays tribute to Derek Draper after ‘living nightmare’ Covid experience
Sharing his own tribute to Draper, former Labour leader Ed Miliband said: “I am deeply sorry to hear of the death of Derek Draper. He was someone of deep intelligence, values and wit who was the life and soul of the many worlds he inhabited, including politics.”
The shadow climate minister said: “I first met Derek 30 years ago and, like anyone who met him, I was drawn into his orbit by his charisma and love of life. He was a loyal and good friend to so many. The last few years have been a living nightmare for him and his family.
“All of my deepest condolences go out to Kate, Darcey and Billy and all his family.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments