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Judith Chalmers, British TV presenting legend, dies aged 90

Europe / United Kingdom0 views1 min
Judith Chalmers, British TV presenting legend, dies aged 90

British TV presenter Judith Chalmers, best known for hosting ITV’s travel show *Wish You Were Here…?*, died at home on May 21 at age 90 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. She began her career at age 13 on BBC Northern’s *Children’s Hour* and later became a prominent figure in British television, presenting shows like *Come Dancing* and *Miss World* before retiring from regular hosting in 2003.

British TV presenter Judith Chalmers passed away peacefully at home on May 21, 2026, at the age of 90. Her family confirmed she had been living with Alzheimer’s disease for several years, with her health declining in recent weeks before her death. Chalmers began her broadcasting career at just 13 years old in 1956, appearing on BBC Northern’s *Children’s Hour*. Over the following decades, she became a familiar face on British television, hosting radio programs like *Family Favourites* and *Women’s Hour*, as well as presenting *Come Dancing* from 1961 to 1965. She later became a staple of ITV Daytime, hosting *Miss World* in the 1980s. Her most enduring role was as the host of ITV’s travel show *Wish You Were Here…?*, which she presented for its entire 29-year run from 1974 to 2003. The series became a beloved fixture, and she hosted 191 episodes alongside co-hosts including Chris Kelly, Anthea Turner, and John Carter. After retiring from regular presenting, Chalmers made occasional appearances on panel shows and celebrity specials, including *Blankety Blank*, *Celebrity Antiques Road Trip*, and *Loose Women*. Her final on-screen role came in 2016 as a special guest in *Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie*. Chalmers was married to former sports commentator Neil Durden-Smith since 1964, and the couple had two children, Mark and Emma, both of whom followed in their mother’s footsteps as broadcasters. She is survived by her husband, children, and grandchildren.

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