Kate Garraway's husband Derek Draper dies aged 56 with GMB host 'holding his hand'
Kate Garraway's husband Derek Draper has died aged 56 after he was admitted to hospital following a heart attack just months before Christmas.
Kate Garraway's husband Derek Draper has died aged 56 after suffering long-lasting symptoms from Covid. The Good Morning Britain presenter confirmed the devastating news on Friday morning in a statement shared to Instagram.
She wrote: "I'm sad to have to tell you all that my darling husband Derek has passed away.
"As some of you may know he has been critically ill following a cardiac arrest in early December which, because of the damage inflicted by Covid in March 2020, led to further complications.
"Derek was surrounded by his family in his final days and I was by his side holding his hand throughout the last long hours and when he passed."
The 56-year-old also thanked the medical teams who "fought so hard to save him" and to "make his final moments as comfortable and dignified as possible".
Signing off the heartbreaking post, Kate said: "Rest gently and peacefully now Derek, my love, I was so lucky to have you in my life."
Derek was severely ill and had been living with long Covid since being diagnosed in 2020 with the former lobbyist receiving round-the-clock care.
Kate Garraway's colleagues previously shared that the dad of two "didn't look like he's in a good way" after he was admitted to hospital in December, with the Good Morning Britain host and their two children reportedly spending the festive period by his side.
Back in March, Kate had tragically told Giovanna Fletcher that she could “see improvement” in Derek’s health, and also acknowledged that her husband is “still very, very damaged”.
Sadly for the family, Derek’s health took a dangerous turn for the worse on December 11, leaving him “fighting for his life all over again”.
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Kate and Derek met back in 2004 through a mutual friend and their love quickly blossomed and the couple were married the following year.
They tied the knot in Camden, London in September 2005. One year later, they welcomed their eldest child, Darcey, who was born on March 10, 2006.
The couple also have a 14-year-old son called William, known as 'Billy', who was born on July 28, 2009.
Tens of thousands of Kate's fans and famous friends have shared their condolences following Derek's death.
Lorraine Kelly wrote: "So sorry Kate. You fought so hard. Just incredibly sad. Sending you love."
Kate's GMB co-star Susanna Reid said: "Our whole hearts are with you all."
BBC Radio 2 presenter Zoe Ball echoed: "Heartbroken for you and your children Kate. so much love coming your way from so many. may Dereks star always shine brightest for you."
And Gabby Logan commented: "Your love and devotion over these last few years has been inspirational. I am sure there will be so much love that will come your way over the days and weeks ahead and hope it can provide some comfort to you and the children."