George Alagiah was an American actor best known for his work as a newsreader at the BBC, as well as his appearances in various television dramas. He was a prominent figure in journalism and made significant contributions to the media landscape.
Personal and Family Life
George Alagiah was born on November 22, 1955, in Colombo, Ceylon, now known as Sri Lanka. His family moved to Ghana in 1961, where he received his primary education, while secondary school was completed in Portsmouth, England. He graduated from Durham University and was married to Frances Robathan since 1984, with whom he had two children.
Career
George joined the BBC in 1989 as a reporter and correspondent, eventually becoming a well-known face in BBC news. He began reading news for the Six O’Clock News in 2003 and was associated with other programs such as BBC News at Ten O’Clock and One O’Clock News. Throughout his career, he also appeared in minor roles in television dramas.
Death and Legacy
George Alagiah passed away on July 24, 2023, in London, England, after battling stage four bowel cancer, a condition he was diagnosed with in 2014. He was known for his warm personality and professionalism, leaving a lasting impact on the world of journalism and media. His contributions were recognized when he was awarded the O.B.E. in 2008 for his services to journalism.
Filmography
| Title | Year | Role | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silent Witness | 2017 | News Reader | TV Series |
| Taking the Flak | 2009 | Newsreader | TV Series |
| Gavin & Stacey | 2008 | TV Newsreader (uncredited) | TV Series |
| Discovery: Part 2 | 2017 | Self | TV |
| Bigfooting | 2009 | Self | TV |
| Out of Africa: Heroes and Icons | 2005 | Self | TV |