BBC Radio Ulster star Gerry Kelly dead aged 77: Tributes paid to ‘much-loved’ Northern Irish broadcaster who interviewed ‘hundreds’ of stars
‘Much-loved’ Northern Irish journalist and broadcaster Gerry Kelly has died at the age of 77.
The former Ulster Television (UTV) and BBC Radio Ulster presenter has conducted a number of high-profile interviews, including one with eight-year-old Rory McIlroy whittling balls into the young golfer’s washing machine.
Gerry’s family confirmed that he passed away at home surrounded by loved ones on Sunday morning.
Kelly revealed in 2018 that she was diagnosed with cancer two years ago but had the tumor successfully removed following surgery and chemotherapy.
Among those who paid tribute following Gerry’s death was Northern Ireland Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly.
He wrote about X: ‘I was very sorry to hear of the death of Gerry Kelly, a face and voice familiar to many generations in Northern Ireland.
‘Much-loved’ Northern Irish journalist and broadcaster Gerry Kelly dies, aged 77
The former Ulster Television (UTV) and BBC Radio Ulster presenter has conducted many high-profile interviews (photo taken with boxers Mike Tyson and Barry McGuigan in 1998)
‘He is a very popular presenter with a huge character. He has interviewed many hundreds of people over the decades, including a young Rory McIlroy and his famous clip with the washing machine!
He added: ‘Thinking of all his family and friends at this time of mourning, I offer my deepest condolences; ‘May God be with them and comfort them in this sad time of loss.’
Northern Irish journalist Anne Hailes said: ‘Sad news. Gerry Kelly passed away this morning at his home with his wife Helena and daughters Sara and Claire.
‘He’s been sick for a while. Great man who will leave great memories, RIP.’
“I am sorry to hear of the death of Gerry Kelly,” said broadcaster William Crawley.
‘He had the rare ability to impress a guest with deep curiosity and genuine warmth; made the interviews feel like real conversations.
‘He also inspired, encouraged and mentored other broadcasters. A big star who was always a gentleman.’
Gerry was born in Ballymena in Co Antrim and moved to Down in his youth, living there until adulthood.
She began hosting her talk show, Kelly, in 1989 and continued to do so until 2005.
After leaving UTV in 2008, Gerry joined BBC Radio Ulster and in 2024 a new TV talk show Conversations with Gerry aired on NVTV.
St. in Belfast He began his career in journalism after starting as a lecturer at St. Mary’s College.
Gerry began reporting on the GAA for UTV and later took over as presenter of Good Evening Ulster on the station.
He began hosting the Kelly talk show on the station in 1989 and continued to do so until 2005.
After leaving UTV in 2008, Gerry joined BBC Radio Ulster and in 2024 a new TV talk show Conversations with Gerry aired on NVTV.
