Renowned Broadcaster and BBC Executive Alan Yentob Dies Aged 78
The BBC has paid tribute to Alan Yentob, the veteran broadcaster, programme maker, and long-time executive, who has died at the age of 78. According to a statement released by the BBC, Alan Yentob passed away on Saturday, 24 May.
During his illustrious career, which spanned over five decades, Alan Yentob held a number of senior and influential positions at the BBC, including controller of BBC One and BBC Two, Director of Television, Head of Music and Arts, Director of BBC Drama, Entertainment and Children’s, and Creative Director. As reported by the BBC, his commissions included popular shows such as "Absolutely Fabulous", "Have I Got News for You", and the classic adaptation of "Pride and Prejudice".
Alan Yentob joined the BBC as a trainee in 1968 and went on to make a significant impact on British broadcasting. He made his name on the arts series "Arena" and also edited and presented the arts documentary series "Imagine" from 2003. The BBC reported that he also launched CBBC and CBeebies, two popular children’s channels.
In recognition of his services to the arts and media, Alan Yentob was presented with a CBE in the 2024 birthday honours list. The news of his death has sent shockwaves through the broadcasting industry, with colleagues and friends paying tribute to his legacy. His wife, Philippa Walker, remembered him as "the kindest of men and a profoundly moral man" who left a "trail of love a mile wide".
BBC Director-General Tim Davie has paid a glowing tribute to Alan Yentob, describing him as a "towering figure in British broadcasting and the arts". As quoted by the BBC, Davie said: "Alan Yentob was a creative force and a cultural visionary, he shaped decades of programming at the BBC and beyond, with a passion for storytelling and public service that leave a lasting legacy." Davie also praised Alan Yentob’s ability to identify and nurture talent, saying: "He had a rare gift for identifying talent and lifting others up – a mentor and champion to so many across the worlds of television, film and theatre."
The BBC has reported that Alan Yentob’s legacy will live on through his groundbreaking programmes, which have inspired generations of broadcasters and artists. As Davie noted: "His programmes, his voice, and the generations he inspired, will live on." The news provider has also confirmed that its thoughts are with Alan Yentob’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
