Heartbreaking Loss: Kate Garraway's Husband Derek Draper Dies at 56

Kate Garraway, a beloved TV star, has announced the devastating news of her husband Derek Draper's passing. Derek, 56, lost his three-year battle with Covid while Kate held his hand in his final moments. The heartbreaking news has prompted an outpouring of support and tributes from Kate's celebrity friends.

Support from Celebrity Friends

Upon hearing the news, a number of Kate's friends rushed to offer their condolences and support. Carol Vorderman expressed her deep sympathy, saying, "Oh no Kate. I'm so very very sorry. Sending you and your beautiful family the deepest condolences." Tamzin Outhwaite also reached out, saying, "Oh Kate, so sorry. Sending you all so much love and strength." Lisa Snowdon added her message of support, "Kate. Sending you all so much love and strength at this heartbreaking time. So cruel and so sad. RIP Derek." Victoria Derbyshire, too, shared her heartfelt condolences, saying, "Kate I am so so so sorry for you and your gorgeous children. As a family unit, the four of you have been immense. Sending so much love and strength to you all."

A Final Goodbye

In a moving Instagram post, Kate revealed that she was by Derek's side as he passed away. She wrote, "I'm sad to have to tell you all that my darling husband Derek has passed away. As some of you may know, he has been critically ill following a cardiac arrest in early December which, because of the damage inflicted by Covid in March 2020, led to further complications. 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."

A Grateful Heart

Kate expressed her gratitude towards the medical teams who fought hard to save Derek and ensure his final moments were comfortable and dignified. She also thanked everyone who has supported her family during this difficult time. Kate concluded her post by saying, "Rest gently and peacefully now Derek, my love. I was so lucky to have you in my life."

A Long Battle

Derek Draper's health had been severely affected by Covid since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020. He spent months in an induced coma and on a ventilator. After being discharged in 2021, Derek faced additional health challenges, including a "life-threatening" sepsis and kidney infection. Most recently, he suffered a heart attack on December 11 and was rushed to the hospital.

Kate Garraway put her TV and radio work on hold to be with Derek during his hospitalization. She spent Christmas at the hospital with their two children, Darcey and Billy.