Alan Yentob, the former director of television and BBC presenter, died earlier this week – and now Vicar of Dibley star Dawn French has paid tribute to the BBC icon
Dawn French has honoured her friend and former colleague Alan Yentob with a touching tribute following his death at the age of 78. The beloved BBC presenter and ex-director of television passed away, leaving behind his wife Philippa Walker and their children.
Philippa’s heartfelt statement read: «For [our children] Jacob, Bella and I every day with Alan held the promise of something unexpected. Our life was exciting, he was exciting. He was curious, funny, annoying, late and creative in every cell of his body. But more than that, he was the kindest of men and a profoundly moral man. He leaves in his wake a trail of love a mile wide.»
As the entertainment world mourns, Dawn French, famed for her role in The Vicar of Dibley, posted a touching photo on X – formerly known as Twitter – with Alan and Jennifer Saunders.
The caption from Dawn read: «We’ve lost a tip top chap. Our advocate from the start… Alan Yentob,» reports the Express.
Alan’s illustrious career with the BBC began in 1968 as a trainee, leading to numerous high-profile positions.
He was instrumental in launching children’s channels CBBC and CBeebies, as well as popular shows like Absolutely Fabulous, Have I Got News For You, and the iconic Pride and Prejudice adaptation.
John Simpson, host of Unspun World, joined the chorus of tributes, expressing his sorrow: «Very sad to hear that my good friend Alan Yentob has died. He was such good company, and a wonderful interviewer and documentary-maker. I shall miss him greatly.»
BBC Director-General Tim Davie paid a heartfelt tribute to Alan, labelling him a «towering figure» in the world of broadcasting. As excitement about Alan’s illustrious career bubbles over, Davie called him «a creative force and a cultural visionary».
In his own words: «He shaped decades of programming at the BBC and beyond, with a passion for storytelling and public service that leaves a lasting legacy.»
Davie warmly remembered Alan as more than just an innovative creator; he recounted, «But Alan was more than a pioneering creative – he was an unforgettable presence. Engaging, witty and endlessly curious, he brought energy and warmth to every conversation. He was generous with his time, fierce in his convictions, and full of joy in the work of others.»
Adding to the accolades, Davie emphasised how working alongside Alan could elevate one’s vision and ambition: «To work with Alan was to be inspired and encouraged to think bigger. He had a rare gift for identifying talent and lifting others up – a mentor and champion to so many across the worlds of television, film and theatre.»
Tim Davie concluded the homage to the beloved figure by saying, «Above all, Alan was a true original. His passion wasn’t performative – it was personal. He believed in the power of culture to enrich, challenge and connect us.»
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