Edward Stourton dies aged 68

The distinguished broadcaster and author Edward Stourton, a trustee of The Tablet, died on Saturday aged 68 from the prostate cancer he was diagnosed with in 2014.

The announcement was made by the BBC, where he had worked as a presenter on the One O’Clock News, Today and most recently on Sunday. He held many roles at the BBC, including as a foreign correspondent, and on Panorama and other television and radio programmes. He wrote a well-received biography of St John Paul II, a book on St Paul, in 2023 a memoir, Confessions and his last book, Made in America: the Dark History that Led to Donald Trump.

Former Archbishop of Westminster Cardinal Vincent Nichols, said he was saddened to learn of the death of the “courteous, warm and deeply perceptive” journalist.

“Over many years I have taken part in programmes and interviews with Ed Stourton. Today I am deeply saddened to learn of his death. I will be praying for the repose of his soul, as is the practice of our Catholic faith, a faith which he cherished and valued deeply.”

Cardinal Nichols praised Stourton’s qualities as a broadcaster: “Whilst always ready to push and probe, Ed was never anything but courteous, warm and deeply perceptive in his questions and comments. These are important values in communication and broadcasting.

“His death, then, is a significant loss to this work in these fields. I will miss his presence and his voice. May he rest in peace. May his family and friends find consolation and hope in the faith which so robustly sustained him.”

Christine Allen, Cafod chief executive, said, “Ed was a respected journalist whose Catholic faith guided his life and work. A gifted reporter and commentator, he was known for his sharp insight, intelligence, and his strong interest in international affairs. I met him many times and he was always wonderful company and had a great sense of humour. He will be greatly missed by everyone who worked with him or was interviewed by him.”

Presenter Julie Etchingham said on X, “Very sad to hear the news about dear colleague Ed Stourton. He helped me with great patience and kindness learn the ropes on @BBCR4Sunday – & we were fellow trustees @The_Tablet and fellow RCs. A huge intellect and great heart. Praying for him and his family this morning.”

James Naughtie, who he co-presented with on Today, said he was one of the best colleagues and praised his “warm intelligence and wit”. Former Today presenter Evan Davis said he had been an important figure for everyone on the programme, “One of those people you’re really glad to have around. All substance, minimum ego, deeply knowledgeable, totally reliable. And he was one of the nicest of colleagues as well. He’ll be missed.”

Among many other tributes published by the corporation, presenter Mishal Husain described him as “a true gentleman and a broadcaster of immense capacity and intellect”.

Born in 1957 in Nigeria, he was educated at Ampleforth and Cambridge and joined the BBC as Parish correspondent in 1988.

Stourton is survived by his wife Fiona, his two sons, a daughter and a step-daughter.

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