It’s been an incredibly emotional time for broadcaster Gyles Brandreth.
Just days after breaking down while remembering his late father on live television, he found himself once again in tears on This Morning—this time opening up about the heartbreaking loss of his family cat.
A Heartfelt Start to the Morning Show
During Friday’s edition of This Morning, Gyles, 77, sat alongside hosts Sian Welby, 38, and Rylan Clark, 36, for the usual round-up of headlines.
But before long, the tone shifted as Rylan gently acknowledged that Gyles had been dealing with some sad news of his own.
Saying Goodbye to a Beloved Pet
Gyles explained that he and his wife Michele had just said farewell to their much-loved cat, Nala, who passed away at the remarkable age of 19.
Nala wasn’t originally theirs—she had belonged to a neighbour but decided one day, quite literally, to hop over the wall and “adopt” the Brandreths instead.
The neighbour even admitted she seemed happier living with them.
“She was nearly 20, which is such a long life for a Maine Coon,” Gyles said softly.
“But she had kidney failure, a tumour, and could no longer walk. It was time to let her go. She only ever brought us joy.”
Considering a New Companion
Though still grieving, Gyles revealed that fate may have stepped in.
Their vet told them about a stray kitten, a little one named Ethel, who needed a foster home.
“We might meet her today,” he said, admitting he wasn’t sure if it was too soon.
“The vet said we could try fostering, and if it works, she’ll stay with us. If not, she’ll find another family.”
Sian responded warmly, calling the possible adoption “fate.”
Coping with the Loss Together
Gyles then described how deeply Nala’s absence is felt at home.
“Nala used to sleep on my wife’s tummy every night,” he shared.
“Last night, I had to rest my hand there so she could fall asleep. I was trying to be like Nala.
We need another one, I think. Thank you for being so kind about it.”
A Reminder of His Father’s Memory
This moment came only a week after another tearful live appearance.
On that occasion, Gyles had been on the sofa with Rachel Johnson, discussing VJ Day, when he was moved to tears by an old photograph of his late father.
He recalled how his father had served six years in army intelligence during WWII but rarely spoke about the experience.
Seeing his father’s face onscreen brought back a flood of emotion, and Rachel comforted him as he tried to hold back tears.
Reflecting on War and Sacrifice
With his voice cracking, Gyles paid tribute not only to his own father but also to his father-in-law, who served in the RAF.
He reminded viewers that while history often speaks about wars in broad strokes, at the heart of it are individuals—ordinary people who gave so much.
“It was a necessary war, though it ended in horror with the atomic bomb.
Today, when you see conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, you realise again—it’s individuals who pay the price,” he said.
A Man Unafraid to Show His Heart
From mourning a beloved pet to remembering his father’s war service, Gyles Brandreth has shown a side of himself that resonates with many.
His openness about grief and loss—whether personal or historical—reminds viewers that even in the public eye, moments of vulnerability are both real and human.
