Laura Hamilton's heartbreaking reason for not seeing Jonnie Irwin during cancer fight

A Place In The Sun star Laura Hamilton revealed she hadn’t been in as close contact with co-star Jonnie Irwin during his cancer battle - just days before he passed away.

The 41-year-old TV presenter was a close personal and professional friend of Jonnie - whose death at the age of 50 was announced on Friday. Jonnie had been bravely battling cancer for three and a half years before succumbing to the disease, leaving behind his wife, Jessica, and their three sons; four-year-old Rex and two-year-old twins Rafa and Cormac.

Jonnie first revealed he was battling cancer in 2022 when he explained he had been diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in 2020 and that the disease had since spread to his brain. Last month, Laura explained that she was hearing from Jonnie less and less as he was spending as much precious time with his young family.

She told The Daily Star: "I haven't spoken to him recently but I know he's enjoying time with his family. It looks like he's doing really well." She went on to add "So it's kind of spending as much time with his family as he can."

Her comments came just days before Jonnie’s tragic passing was revealed. On Friday, a statement from his family read: "It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie's passing. A truly remarkable soul, he fought bravely against cancer with unwavering strength and courage.

"Jonnie touched the lives of so many with his kindness, warmth, and infectious spirit. At this time, we kindly ask for the privacy of Jonnie's family as they navigate through this profound loss. Their grief is immeasurable, and your thoughts, prayers, and support are deeply appreciated."

The statement continued: "As we remember the beautiful moments shared with Jonnie, let us celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will forever be etched in our hearts. Jonnie may be gone from our sight, but his love, laughter, and memories will live on."

Devastated fans have taken to social media to express their condolences. One wrote on X: "So incredibly sadden to hear that Jonnie Irwin has passed away. So brilliant on A Place in the Sun and Escape to the Country. He was so incredibly brave and always seemed like a genuinely lovely guy. Condolences to him family. Rest in peace Jonnie."

Another typed: "I'm gutted. Jonnie Irwin's warmth leapt through the screen whenever he was on A Place in the Sun. He fought cancer with such tremendous strength and bravery and made every day count. My heart goes out to his wife and young sons." And another typed: "He will be missed."

The official A Place In The Sun Instagram page also paid tribute to the fallen star on behalf of the cast, bosses and crew that work on the show. They wrote: “We are heartbroken. Jonnie was a much-loved part of the A Place in the Sun family for more than 18 years - he Brough joy, wit and bundles of energy to the show. We will miss him terribly. Our thoughts are with Jess and the boys and the rest of the family.”

The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.

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