Heartbreak for Kate Garraway: Husband Derek Draper Passes Away at 56
Friends of Kate Garraway have reported that she is ‘bearing up’ after the tragic death of her husband, Derek Draper, at the age of 56.
The Good Morning Britain presenter shared the news on Instagram, expressing her gratitude for the time she had with him and describing his passing after a heart attack following a prolonged battle with Covid.
ITV has assured Garraway that she can take as much time off as needed, as the atmosphere at the network’s studios remains somber following the news.
Kate, who has two children with Derek, is said to be staying strong for her family, including her 17-year-old daughter Darcey and 11-year-old son Billy.
Derek Draper’s Illness and Passing: A Heartfelt Tribute
Derek Draper, a former researcher for Peter Mandelson and later a New Labour spin doctor turned psychotherapist, succumbed to Covid-related complications after being one of the earliest serious cases in the UK.
Political figures, including Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, expressed their condolences, highlighting Draper’s resilience and positive qualities.
His passing, marked by a massive heart attack, led to emotional responses from friends and colleagues on live TV.
Speaker of the House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle, called it a ‘complete tragedy’ and praised Kate Garraway’s unwavering dedication to Derek.
Remembering Derek Draper: A Life of Struggles and Achievements
In a September 2023 interview, Kate Garraway shared her concerns about raising their children amid Derek’s health struggles.
Derek’s psychotherapy company faced financial difficulties in 2022, adding to the challenges the family already faced.
The emotional and financial burdens of caring for Derek, who never fully recovered from the virus’s damage, were significant.
Colleagues, including Lorraine Kelly and Sir Elton John, expressed their condolences, acknowledging Derek’s presence at high-profile events and the impact of his illness on the family.
Derek Draper’s Political Career and Later Life
Derek Draper’s political career, marked by controversies and the ‘lobbygate’ scandal, took a turn when he retrained as a psychotherapist.
He married Kate Garraway in 2005, becoming part of a prominent media power couple.
Subsequent events, such as his involvement in the ‘RedRag’ scandal and his resignation from LabourList, led to a shift in his public image.
Despite health challenges, he remained connected with political friends and attended events.
His lengthy battle with Covid garnered national attention, making him one of the longest-suffering patients in the UK.
Support and Tributes for Kate Garraway
Colleagues and friends, including Susanna Reid, Charlotte Hawkins, and Alison Hammond, offered heartfelt messages of support to Kate Garraway on social media.
The outpouring of love from various public figures reflects the impact of Derek’s illness on the couple and their family.
Kevin Lygo, managing director of media and entertainment at ITV, expressed the network’s sadness and offered continued support.
Sir Elton John, who attended an event with Derek and Kate, sent his love and thoughts, emphasizing the deep impact of Derek’s passing on those who knew him.
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