TV icon Dame Esther Rantzen has paid a heartfelt tribute to her That's Life! co-star Chris Serle, describing him as "funny, clever and charming" following his passing at the age of 81. The news of the beloved BBC radio and TV presenter's death was disclosed by his family to BBC News, with Serle being celebrated for his substantial contributions to television during the 80s and 90s. Originally from Bristol , Serle became a household name through the satirical consumer affairs programme That's Life!, where he worked alongside Dame Esther, tackling various topics such as consumer advice and investigative journalism.
"I am so very sad to hear that Chris Serle, one of our best loved That's Life! reporters, has died," said Dame Esther in an emotional statement to the PA news agency. Remembering him fondly, she reflected: "He was as nice off camera as he was in the studio on camera funny, clever, charming, a very versatile presenter." She recalled their first meeting, noting: "When I first met him he was a producer, but it was clear that he had all the attributes of the best reporters.
He will be greatly missed by everyone, not just viewers and listeners of That's Life! but all who had the pleasure of knowing him through his numerous radio and television programmes." In expressing her condolence, Dame Esther sent out her "deepest sympathy" to Serle's circle of friends and relatives. This touching homage follows reports of Serle's demise on BBC News, with his family's tribute hailing.