Journalist and beloved TV presenter Henry Kelly, known for hosting popular TV game shows including Game For A Laugh and Going For Gold, has died aged 78, his family confirmed. Kelly passed away peacefully on Tuesday after battling illness for some time.
Henry Kelly: From Journalism to Television Stardom
Born in Dublin on April 17, 1946, Kelly began his career as a journalist at The Irish Times during the turbulent period of civil unrest in Northern Ireland. He moved to London in 1976, joining the BBC as a reporter and presenter for Radio 4’s The World Tonight.
Kelly made a significant career shift in 1980, moving away from journalism into entertainment television. He quickly became a household name in Britain, hosting ITV’s hit comedy game show Game For A Laugh, famous for its practical jokes and humorous pranks on the public.
Legendary Host of Going For Gold
In the late 1980s, Kelly became widely recognized as the face of BBC quiz show Going For Gold, hosting for ten successful seasons. The show, known for its unique Pan-European format, featured contestants from across Europe competing for prizes. Its memorable theme tune was composed by renowned film composer Hans Zimmer.
Speaking about Going For Gold in an interview, Kelly fondly recalled the show’s European diversity, noting, “We were the only people in this country at the time, and probably since, who were really European.”
Renowned Radio Presenter and Broadcaster
Beyond television, Kelly was among the original presenters who launched Classic FM. He also had a strong presence on radio, hosting popular programmes on LBC, BBC Radio London, and later, BBC Radio Berkshire, where he remained for a decade from 2005.
Kelly’s distinguished career earned him recognition as National Broadcaster of the Year at the Sony Radio Awards in 1994. He also appeared on TV comedy Dinnerladies alongside Victoria Wood and hosted the journalistic talk show After Dark.
Remembered Fondly by Family and Friends
Kelly’s family expressed their deep loss in a statement: “Henry will be sorely missed by his friends and family, including his partner Karolyn Shindler, their son Alexander, Henry’s daughter Siobhan, and her mother Marjorie.”
