Midlands A Place in the Sun presenter Jonnie Irwin has accused TV bosses of ditching him as soon as his cancer diagnosis became public. The 49-year-old, who has terminal lung cancer, said he kept it secret for two years to protect his family and so he could keep earning money.
He was given just six months to live in 2020 after being diagnosed, with the cancer having spread to his brain. But excellent treatment has kept him alive for longer.
He said TV chiefs didn’t renew his deal with the famous property show as soon as his tragic condition came out, claiming insurance was a big issue. He said: “As soon as I told A Place in the Sun about my diagnosis they paid me for the rest of the season but didn’t renew my contract.
"They knew I wanted to carry on. That hurt. That broke my heart. I feel hugely let down. I can’t even watch the show now.”
Dad of three Jonnie explained: “They said, ‘We don’t think we can get the insurance’, not ‘We can’t get the insurance’, but, ‘We don’t think…’ “That broke my heart and affected my mental health. Within two weeks someone else was on TV doing my job.” Jonnie, who comes from Bitteswell, near Lutterworth, wanted to keep earning so that his family could be provided for.
Jonnie appeared on Good Morning Britain today (Nov 24) and fans were stunned at his story. On Twitter @Colabubble said: “#GMB Well that puts things into perspective. Love & strength to @jonnieirwin & his beautiful family Such a brave & honest interview with an important message. Living with cancer & making memories to be treasured forever. Much love to you all @jonnieirwin xx.”
@Boroloony added: “Just watched @jonnieirwin on #GMB Absolutely inspirational. I hope the producers of A Place in the Sun hang their heads in shame. Easily the best presenter of the show, his illness should not even be a question. Good luck with your fight Jonnie and love to your family #HateCancer”
@Jpd3_jim said: “Excellent #gmb interview with @jonnieirwin. Very brave and pragmatic. Disgusting attitude from Place in the Sun. Best wishes to Jonnie for the future.”
Channel 4 and the production company behind the show, Freeform, released a statement saying they had left “no stone unturned” to try to continue allowing Jonnie to film internationally. They added: “We, of course, understand how frustrating this must be for him at this incredibly difficult time.”
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