Tributes have poured in following the death of broadcaster, charity founder, and campaigner Dame Esther Rantzen at the age of 86. Dame Esther was widely remembered for her impactful career and fierce dedication to social causes.
Broadcasting and Charity Work
Dame Esther was well-known for hosting and producing the BBC television show That's Life! Beyond her broadcasting career, she founded Childline. The director of Childline praised her as an inspirational figure and a formidable force who transformed how society views children, noting her unwavering determination whenever she had a vision for change.
Campaigning and Tributes
In her later years, Dame Esther became a prominent campaigner advocating for the legalisation of assisted dying. TV executive Michael Grade paid tribute to her courage. Additionally, Baroness Jan Royall, a friend and former leader of the House of Lords, described her on BBC Radio 4's Today programme as an extraordinary, compassionate, and formidable woman.
A broadcast celebrating her life and work is scheduled to air on BBC One on Friday, 2 October, at 19:30 BST.