‘I’M MOURNING’ — Lorraine Kelly’s Heartache As She Announces Dad’s ‘Shock’ Death Aged 84, Sharing The Emotional Memories That Defined Her Life
Lorraine Kelly and dad John, pictured during filming for GMTV at The Mills Observatory, which she re-shared in October
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Lorraine Kelly has shared devastating news with fans, announcing the sudden death of her beloved father John, who passed away aged 84.
TV legend Lorraine shared a heartbreaking tribute on InstagramCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
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Taking to Instagram, the ITV presenter wrote simply: “Very sad news. My dad has died.” She then opened her heart with a moving tribute that revealed just how deeply her father shaped the woman the public sees today.
“I am mourning the man who bought me a telescope when I was five years old, who watched the moon landings with me and taught me to always be curious and interested in everything,” Lorraine wrote.
“Our priority is taking care of my mum,” she added, asking for privacy for the family during what she described as a “distressing time.”
Tributes pour in
Almost immediately, Lorraine’s celebrity friends flooded the comments with messages of support.
Charlotte Hawkins added: “Heartbreaking for you. Sending loads of love.”
Craig David shared: “Sending my love to you & the family Lorraine. He was always your angel.”
Vanessa Feltz said: “I know what a close and loving family you are. My deepest condolences.”
Dawn French simply wrote: “Love wrapped around you.”
A lifetime of quiet inspiration
John with baby Lorraine, who was born when he was just 18 when she was born in 1959Credit: Instagram
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John, a former TV service engineer, had a lifelong passion for science and astronomy — a love he passed directly to his daughter. Lorraine has often credited him with inspiring her curiosity about the world.
He and his wife Anne were married for more than 65 years and raised two children, with Graham six years younger than Lorraine, who is now 66.
Lorraine Kelly recovering in a hospital bed after keyhole surgery. 5 Lorraine updated fans ahead of surgery in MayCredit: Instagram
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Lorraine previously spoke about terrifying moments when doctors feared she might lose her dad after he battled a severe infection and heart failure.
In a 2021 interview, she revealed: “We went through a few very tough months thinking we were going to lose him. It was just awful – but he rallied. He basically has heart failure, and at one point they even feared lung cancer, but it turned out to be a massive infection.”
Caring for her family — and herself
The presenter has also been open about caring for her mother Anne, who suffers from nephrotic syndrome, a serious kidney condition. Lorraine even cut back her work hours to spend more time with her.
Last May, she also revealed her own health scare, sharing a hospital bed video with fans and explaining she needed preventative surgery to remove her ovaries and tubes after feeling unwell for some time.
From Glasgow beginnings to TV icon
Born in the Gorbals area of Glasgow, Lorraine grew up with her parents before moving to Bridgeton and later East Kilbride, where she began her career at the East Kilbride News.
Just weeks ago, she posted a throwback photo of herself with her dad during filming at The Mills Observatory — a quiet, poignant moment now filled with new meaning.
As Lorraine continues to grieve, her words have left thousands of fans reflecting on the powerful bond between a father and daughter — and the lessons that last long after they’re gone.